WHAT IS A HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION?

A homestead exemption is a legal provision that helps reduce the amount of property taxes you pay on your home and saves you money.  Under Georgia law, if you own and occupy the new property as your primary residence, you may be eligible for a homestead exemption (a reduction in your property taxes). This exemption is not automatic, so you will have to properly file for the exemption to save on your taxes.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW?

You will need to file the homestead exemption application and submit all required information and documentation by April 1 in order to be granted the homestead exemption for this year. Once you have properly filed for the homestead exemption and it has been granted, the exemption will remain on your property until there is a change in ownership (i.e., you do NOT need to refile for the exemption every year).  In order to complete the application, you may need the following information and documentation: 
 

• Georgia Driver’s License or valid GA identification;

• Social Security Number (Owner and Spouse)

• Registration for all vehicles owned

• Recorded deed for the new owner

• Trust document and affidavit if the property is in a trust

• Proof of income, previous year’s tax returns, and copy of Social Security Award Letter (for Senior and other Special Exemptions)
   

You can find instructions on how to file for the exemption for your county below: 
 

Cherokee County | Clayton County | Cobb County | Coweta County | DeKalb County 
Douglas County | Fayette County | Forsyth County | Fulton County | Gwinnett County

Hall County |Henry County | Newton County | Paulding County

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*For more information on homestead exemptions, you can go to the department of revenue website, https://dor.georgia.gov/property-tax-homestead-exemptions