Apply for Homestead Tax Exemption to Lower Property Taxes

Monday 27 January 2025

“At its core, homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of a homeowner’s primary residence, meaning a portion of the home value will not be taxed. This reduction results in lower property tax bills. The available exemption amount can depend on age, disability, marital status, dependent children living at home, and property type. “ – National Association of Realtors

Below is an excerpt from Coahma County, Mississippi’s announcement of the Homestead Tax Exemption:

“The deadline for filing application for new or changed homestead applications is April 1.
According to Mississippi State Law you must be in compliance with all of the following as of January 1 of the year application is made:

  1. Applicant must be considered head of a family or household
  2. Applicant must own the property and reside on the property on January 1 of the year the application is made.
  3. Property must be the primary residence of the applicant(s).
  4. Applicant(s) must be in compliance with the Mississippi income tax requirements.
  5. All vehicles owned by or in the possession of the applicant(s) must have Mississippi license plates.

    Applicant(s) can file for homestead exemption on only one residence in the state.

First-Time Filing
Application for homestead exemption benefits must be filed between January 1 and April 1.

The first day to file is the first working day in January.  The applicant must come in person to the Tax Assessor’s office the first time to file for homestead exemption benefits. Each year thereafter the homestead exemption benefits are automatically renewed unless there is a change in the filing status.

  • Changes in Homestead Exemption Status
    If any of the following changes occur, a new application must be filed in the tax assessor’s office:
  • Marriage, divorce, separation, or death of spouse or joint owner
    Change in ownership, use, or occupancy
  • Acquisition of new property or change in property description
    First time to apply for being over sixty-five years of age or 100% disabled
  • If you no longer qualify for homestead exemption benefits, you must notify the assessor’s office.”

If you need additional information please call your county’s Tax Assessor/Collector’s Office.

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