A Guide for Homebuyers

The homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence in Georgia, thereby lowering your property tax bill. For instance, the state offers a $2,000 exemption from the taxed assessed value (40% of fair market value), while additional exemptions are available for seniors, veterans, and others under specific income or situational criteria. These can notably reduce county or school taxes as well (Department of Revenue).

To qualify for the current tax year:

• You must own and occupy the property as your legal residence by January 1 of the tax year.
  
  

• Your application must be filed by April 1, the same deadline as property tax returns in Georgia (paulding.gov, Georgia.gov, Department of Revenue).
  
  

• Some counties allow applications to be submitted year-round, but only those received by April 1 are valid for that current tax year; after the deadline, applications are applied to the next tax year (Fulton County Board of Assessors.)
  

Yes, but with conditions:

• Applications after April 1 are accepted but only take effect for the next tax year (Fulton County Board of Assessors).
  
  

• In some cases, counties may extend filing via a 45-day window tied to appeal periods for property assessments, effectively allowing a slightly extended timeframe beyond April 1—though this varies by county and context (Department of Revenue).
  
  

• Once granted, the homestead exemption automatically renews each year, so long as the homeowner continues to live in the same property under the same ownership (Georgia.gov).
  
  

• A new application is required only if ownership or residence changes, or if you move and become eligible for a different exemption (e.g., age or disability-based) (henrycountytax.com)

• Explain the “why” clearly: Homestead exemption lowers property taxes for homeowners—core value to highlight.
  
  

• Stress the January 1 ownership and occupancy requirement—homebuyers should aim to be settled and ready to apply early in the year.
  
  

• Highlight the April 1 filing deadline, equating it to the property tax return deadline—creating a sense of urgency.
  
  

• Reassure clients that if they miss the deadline, they aren’t permanently out of luck—just must wait until the next tax year.
  
  

• Let them know the exemption is typically automatic after approval, and only needs reapplying in special circumstances.