Here’s how to file Homestead Exemption in Georgia

SPOTLIGHT South Cobb News would like to remind seniors and all other eligible residents to apply for your property tax exemption programs by April 1.

If you are a resident and homeowner in Cobb County, homestead exemptions are a great way to reduce the amount of property taxes you pay for your home. Homestead exemptions are deducted from the assessed value of the qualifying property (40% of the fair market value). Exemptions only apply to homestead property you own and occupy as your legal residence.

Please note that you can have a homestead exemption on only one property. If you are married, by law you can only have one homestead exemption between you and your spouse.

To qualify for homestead exemptions, you must provide proof of the following:

• A copy of your Georgia driver’s license showing you are a permanent and legal resident of both Cobb County and the state of Georgia. The driver’s license must also reflect the property address for which you are claiming the homestead exemption.
• A copy of your current registration or tax receipt for all vehicles you own showing that you paid motor vehicle taxes in Cobb County. This proof is in accordance with Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 48-5-444) which states, “Each motor vehicle owned by a resident of this state shall be returned in the county where the owner claims homestead exemption.”

Under Georgia law, exemption applications must receive final approval by the Board of Assessors. If denied, you shall have the right of appeal to the county Board of Equalization as provided in O.C.G.A. § 48-5-311.

Once approved, the homestead exemption is automatically renewed each year as long as you continually occupy the home under the same ownership. The only time you must reapply for an exemption is if there is a change in ownership, residence or you wish to qualify for a higher exemption.

You can complete your 2023 application online. It must be received by April 1 to be eligible for the current tax year’s exemption.

To apply, click here. For more information, click here.