Homestead Exemptions in Georgia

If you’re a homeowner in Georgia, you may be eligible for homestead exemptions. The exemptions are designed to help homeowners reduce their property tax burdens.

The state offers these exemptions to all qualifying homeowners, saving you thousands of dollars in property taxes. Homestead exemptions can take various forms, but they typically involve a deduction or exemption from a portion of the property’s assessed value.

Understanding Homestead Exemptions in Georgia

A homestead exemption is a legal provision that offers property tax relief to homeowners on their primary residence. Georgia grants different homestead exemptions, including basic exemptions and others based on income, age, and veteran status.

To qualify for homestead exemption in Georgia, you must:

• Be the legal owner of the property for which you seek the exemption.
• Have owned the home as of 1st January of the current tax year
• Reside in the home
• Apply for the exemption by 1st April
• Prepare and submit the required documents
• You cannot apply for a homestead exemption for another property either in Georgia or another state

The exact requirements can vary between counties in Georgia. Check with your local tax assessor’s office for specific and up-to-date information.

Types of Homestead Exemptions in Georgia

Standard Homestead Exemption

This is the basic exemption available to all homeowners in Georgia for a home that’s occupied and is the primary residence. Eligible owners may be granted a $2000 exemption deducted from 40% of the property’s assessed value.

If your home is a farm, you can apply for an exemption with your local housing authority under the rural housing program.

Exemptions for Individuals 65+ Years Old

Individuals 65 years old and above can apply for a $4000 exemption from county and all ad valorem (tax based on a property’s assessed value) taxes.

The individual’s and their spouse’s income for the previous year should not exceed $10,000. However, social security income (disability, pension, retirement) is excluded up to the maximum amount paid to the individual and their spouse.

Exemptions for Educational Purposes

Individuals 62 years and above can apply for exemptions from all assessed value taxes for educational purposes. However, their income and their spouse’s in the prior year should not exceed $10,000.

You must be a resident of each independent and county school district. The exemption also retires any school bond indebtedness.

Floating Inflation-Proof Exemption

Those 62 and older are eligible for a floating inflation-proof exemption if the property’s appraised value has increased by over $10,000.

The combined household income should not exceed $30,000. Also, the exemption replaces any other county homestead exemption and does not affect educational and municipal taxes. 

Disabled Veteran or Surviving Spouse

Any qualified disabled veteran or their un-remarried spouse and minor children is granted an exemption of a maximum amount of $109,986 (in 2023) from all county, municipal, and school taxes.

Surviving Spouse of U.S. Service Member

An un-remarried surviving spouse of a member of the armed forces who died or was killed in a war or armed conflict is granted a $60,000 exemption from assessed value taxes for the county, municipal, and school.

Surviving Spouse of Peace Officer or Firefighter

An un-remarried surviving spouse of a firefighter or peace officer killed in the line of duty is granted full exemption as long as they occupy the home as their primary residence.

Documents Required When Applying for Homestead Exemption

The required documents vary by county or municipality where the property is located. If you’re applying for a special exemption, you may need to provide additional documentation as proof of eligibility. 

Gather these documents when applying for exemptions. 

• Proof of residency, such as a valid Georgia driver’s license with the address of the current residence
• Recorded warranty deed for new owners
• Property ownership documents like property deed 
• Proof of age for age-related exemptions
• Income statements
• Trust documents (for properties in a trust)
• Duly filled homestead exemption application form
• Disability or retirement records

At What Age Do You Stop Paying Georgia State Tax?

Georgia does not have a specific age at which individuals automatically stop paying state income tax.

However, certain age-related exemptions and tax benefits may be available to senior citizens. Georgia allows a retirement exclusion for taxpayers 62 years of age or older and people who are totally and permanently disabled.

At What Age Do You Stop Paying Property Taxes in Georgia?

There is no specific age at which individuals automatically stop paying property taxes in Georgia. Instead, Georgia offers property tax exemptions to provide relief to certain individuals, including senior citizens.

These exemptions may not eliminate property taxes but can reduce the property’s taxable value, resulting in lower tax bills. Age-related property tax exemptions require the applicant to be at least 65 years old. 

Applying for Homestead Exemptions in Georgia

Step 1: Determine Eligibility: Before you file a homestead exemption, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes owning the property, using it as your primary residence, and meeting any age or income requirements for specific exemptions.

Step 2: Complete the Application: Download and fill out the homestead exemption application accurately and completely. Provide all the required information, including details about the property and your residency.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents: Collect the necessary supporting documents, such as proof of residency, property ownership documents, and, if applicable, documentation related to age or income requirements. The specific documents needed can vary by county.

Step 4: Submit the Application: Submit the completed application and supporting documents to the local tax assessor’s office. Ensure you meet the deadline for filing (April 1), as missing the deadline may result in the denial of the exemption for that tax year.

Step 5: Wait for Processing: The tax assessor’s office will review your application and supporting documents. Once approved, most exemptions are automatically renewed annually as long as you continue residing on the property.

Applications are filed with the tax commissioner’s office, but some counties delegate to the tax assessor’s office, so be sure to find your county’s exact office.

Conclusion

Filing for homestead exemption in Georgia can reduce your property tax burden. At Cumberland Law Group, we encourage eligible homeowners to take advantage of these exemptions and secure financial relief.

Whether you’re a retiree, a long-time homeowner, or someone looking to ease their tax responsibilities, the process is manageable.

Remember to check with your local tax assessor’s office for specific details, gather the necessary documents, and submit your application on time.