How To File For Homestead Exemption

💡 How to File for Homestead Exemption

If you recently purchased a home, filing for homestead exemption is a smart way to reduce your property taxes. Here’s what you need to know about who qualifies, why you should file, and how to complete the process!

✅ What is Homestead Exemption and Why Should You File?

Homestead exemption is a tax benefit that lowers the taxable value of your primary residence, resulting in reduced property taxes. By filing, you can save hundreds of dollars annually, making it a worthwhile step for homeowners.

👥 Who Qualifies for Homestead Exemption?

To be eligible, you must:

• Own and occupy the property as your primary residence by January 1 of the filing year.
• Be a Mississippi resident.
• File by April 1 to claim the exemption for that tax year.

Additional Exemptions:

• 65+ or disabled: You may qualify for an additional exemption, which further reduces your tax burden. (You must provide a Birth Certificate or Valid Driver’s License for verification of age. Must be 65 as of Jan 1^st of the year you are filing for.)
• Disability: If 100% disabled, bring one of the following:
  • Social Security Disability– Award Letter showing the Eligibility date (The Date you became disabled)
  • Disabled Veteran- Must be 100% Service Connected. Letter from VA showing the Eligibility date.
  • Other Disability- Two original letters from two separate doctors.

📝 What You Should Need To File:

Filing is simple but must be done in person at your county’s tax assessor’s office. Bring the following documents:

• Deed or closing statement (proof of ownership)
• Homestead Exemption Application Form
• Mississippi driver’s license or ID (showing the property address)
• Car tag registrations - All Vehicles in your name
• Social Security numbers for you and your spouse (if married)
• Copy of Divorce Decree (if applicable)

📍 Lamar County Tax Assessor:
 144 Shelby Speights Dr., Purvis, MS 39475
📞 (601) 794-1020

📍 Forrest County Tax Assessor:
601 N. Main Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401
📞 (601) 545-6130

📍 Jones County Tax Assessor:
101 North Court Street Suite A Ellisville, MS
📞 (601) 477-3253

📍 Jefferson Davis County Tax Assessor:
📞 (601) 792-4291

📍 Covington County Tax Assessor:
📞 (601) 765-6232

🔥 Don’t Miss the Deadline!

The filing deadline is April 1. Filing late means you’ll miss out on the tax savings for that year, so be sure to handle it promptly.

✨ Tip: Even if you’ve owned your home for years, it’s worth double-checking that you have the exemption in place—you might be missing out on valuable savings!

Selling Southern - Real Estate Brokerage in Hattiesburg, MS 

601-602-4370 Office