How to apply for Georgia Senior Homestead Exemption (Age 65+ — $4,000)

Who it's for

Georgia homeowners who own and live in their home as their primary residence can claim a homestead exemption that lowers their property taxes. Every resident homeowner qualifies for a standard $2,000 exemption from county and school taxes. Homeowners 65 and older may claim an additional $4,000 exemption from all county property taxes if their income (and their spouse's) did not exceed $10,000 for the prior year — and most retirement, pension, and Social Security income is excluded from that $10,000 count, so many seniors on a fixed income qualify. Seniors 62 and older may also claim added exemptions for school taxes, and a separate floating inflation-proof exemption is available at 62+ with income under $30,000. Many Georgia counties offer larger local senior exemptions on top of these, so it's worth checking with your county tax commissioner. Apply once with your county tax commissioner; the exemption then renews automatically as long as you qualify.

What you'll need

• Proof of age (driver's license or birth certificate)
• Proof the home is your primary residence (Georgia driver's license showing the address, voter registration, or car registration)
• Proof of prior-year income (for the income-tested exemptions)
• Recorded deed or proof of ownership

Where to apply

Renewals

one-time application; renews automatically while you qualify