A Homestead Exemption Can Save New Homeowners Money

If You Closed on Your Primary Home in Georgia or North Carolina in 2023, You'll Want to File for a Homestead Exemption by April 1st

A Homestead Exemption entails a decrease in property taxes for homeowners and who doesn't want that? The way it works is, the exemption amount is subtracted from the property's assessed value. This filing is a one-time requirement, and to be eligible, you must submit your application by April 1, 2024. Upon approval, the exemption is automatically renewed annually as long as you consistently occupy the home under the same ownership.

 

How to File for a Homestead Exemption

1.) Determine if You Are Eligible

• You must have owned the property as of January 1, 2024
• The home must be considered your legal residence for all purposes
• You must occupy the home
• You have not already claimed a homestead exemption for another property in another state

2.) Gather Necessary Documents & Information

• Homeowner’s name
• Property address
• Property’s parcel ID
• Proof of residency, such as a copy of a valid Georgia driver’s license and a copy of vehicle registration
• Recorded deed for new owners, if county records have not been updated
• Trust document and affidavit, if the property is in a trust
• Some counties require a Certificate of Occupancy if the home was newly constructed

3.) File Your Application

Because each county operates differently, you may or may not need to file in person. For more information about your county's requirements and process, find your county's Homestead Exemption information from the links below:

 

GEORGIA

Cherokee County, GA
Fannin County, GA
Gilmer County, GA
Habersham County, GA
Lumpkin County, GA
Pickens County, GA
Rabun County, GA
Towns County, GA
Union County, GA
White County, GA

 

NORTH CAROLINA

Cherokee County, NC
Clay County, NC

If you need general information about Georgia’s Homestead Exemption, go to the official website for the state of Georgia. For general information for North Carolina, click here.

 

Next Steps
Once approved, most homestead exemptions are automatically renewed each year as long as you continually occupy the home under the same ownership. Time is of the essence, so file your application no later than Monday, April 1, 2024!