It's Homestead Time! (time sensitive)

 

 

If you bought a home last year, remember to file for your Homestead Exemption to help you save on property taxes. Under Georgia law you are entitled to a Homestead Exemption (a reduction of your property taxes) for any property that you have been occupying as your primary residence as of January 1,2015.

THIS IS NOT AUTOMATIC – YOU HAVE TO FILE.

You can find the Homestead Exemption Application form online for most Georgia counties on their  respective Tax Commissioner’s website.

YOU WILL NEED TO FILE WITH YOUR COUNTY’S TAX COMMISSIONER BY APRIL 1, 2015* IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION THIS YEAR.

Once you have filed, the exemption will remain on your property until there is a change in ownership (i.e., you do NOT need to refile every year). In order to complete the application, you will need several items as detailed on the application form. These will likely include the tax parcel ID number and the recorded deed book and page number of your vesting deed (likely a Warranty Deed) showing the transfer of the property into your name. This should have been sent to you by the closing attorney approximately 6 weeks after the closing. The Tax Commissioner’s office can furnish the forms for the application and answer any questions that you may have.

It is always a good idea to contact your county’s Tax Commissioner’s Office or Tax Assessor’s Office after you have filed the form to confirm receipt and to verify that the taxing authority considers the exemption properly filed.

Please feel free to call me if you have any questions.

*Please confirm with your county’s Tax Commissioner’s office, as this date may vary.

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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Keller Williams Atlanta Partners and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
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