Homestead Exemption

What is a Homestead Exemption?

Generally, a homeowner is entitled to a homestead exemption on their home and land underneath provided the home was owned by the homeowner and was their legal residence as of January 1 of the taxable year. (O.C.G.A. § 48-5-40)

How Do I Qualify For Homestead Exemption?

• A person must actually occupy the home, and the home is considered their legal residence for all purposes.
• Persons that are away from their home because of health reasons will not be denied homestead exemption. A family member or friend can notify the tax receiver or tax commissioner and the homestead exemption will be granted. (O.C.G.A. § 48-5-40)

When are Homestead Applications Due?

To Receive Homestead for the Current Tax Year A homeowner can file an application for homestead exemption for their home and land any time during the prior year up to the deadline for filing returns. To receive the homestead exemption for the current tax year, the homeowner must have owned the property ON January 1 and filed the homestead application by the same date property tax returns are due in the county. (April 1)

Homestead applications that are filed after April 1 will not be granted until the next calendar year. (O.C.G.A. § 48-5-45) 

Types of Homestead Exemptions Available in Greene County

Read more about the several types of homestead exemptions available in Greene County. 

Additional information can be found on the Department of Revenue’s Property Tax Homestead Exemptions webpage.