It’s that dreaded tax season again, but as a homeowner, there’s a bright side! You’re eligible for a break on your property taxes for simply owning your home. Seriously! If you bought a home in the past year or have never filed for your homestead tax exemption, it’s time to do so!

What is the homestead tax exemption anyways? A homestead exemption helps you save on your taxes for simply being a homeowner. It’s a reduction on your property taxes.

To qualify, you must reside in the home on January 1st for the year in which you are applying and the home must be your primary residence. Unfortunately, You cannot claim multiple homestead tax exemptions for multiple properties. Shucks!

To receive your exemption, you must apply before your county’s deadline. Once granted, the exemption is automatically renewed each year. Each county has different exemption programs. Be sure to read the information for your specific county. If your exemption status should change, you will need to re-apply.

Below are instructions on how to apply in each county. Don’t miss your opportunity to file and receive a break on your property taxes!

 

Cobb County

https://www.cobbtax.org/property/exemptions

Deadline to submit the application by mail is April 1st.

 

Cherokee County

http://www.cherokeega.com/Tax-Assessors-Office/homestead-exemptions/

Deadline to submit the application is April 1st. You must apply in person at the Tax Assessors Office.

 

DeKalb County

http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/taxcommissioner

Use drop down menu at top left to get information and fill out application. Deadline to submit the application, either online or by mail, is April 1st. Dunwoody homes are included in DeKalb County.

 

Decatur

If you live in Decatur, you must apply for both Decatur and DeKalb County.

http://www.decaturga.com/city-government/city-departments/administrative-services/taxes-and-fees/homestead-exemption-information

Deadline to submit the application, either online or by mail, is April 1st. However, please note that although they can accept homestead exemptions until April 1st, they encourage eligible homeowners to apply for any new exemptions prior to March 15th to ensure your exemption appears on your 1st installment tax bill.

Applications received after April 1st will be processed for the following tax year.

 

Gwinnett County

http://gwinnetttaxcommissioner.publicaccessnow.com/PropertyTax/HomesteadExemption/AboutHomesteadExemptions.aspx

Deadline to submit the application, either online or by mail, is April 1st.

 

Fulton County

http://www.qpublic.net/ga/fulton/homestead_inst.html

Deadline to submit the application is April 1st. Sandy Springs homes are included in Fulton County.

 

Forsyth County

http://www.forsythco.com/Departments-Offices/Board-of-Assessors/Homestead-Exemption

Deadline to submit the application is April 1st.

You only have to file for homestead exemption during your first year as the new homeowner. Each county has slightly different homestead exemption programs. Be sure to read the information for your specific county. If your exemption status changes, you will need to re-apply. Please feel free to reach out with any questions!

Thanks!

Kyle & Stephanie