How to apply for Mississippi Homestead Exemption, with the larger exemption for homeowners 65 or older or totally disabled

Who it's for

Mississippi's homestead exemption lowers the property tax on the home you own and live in. Most homeowners under 65 can get a tax credit of up to $300 a year, based on the home's value. Homeowners who are at least 65, or totally disabled, by January 1 get a bigger break: no taxes on the first $7,500 of assessed value of the home, and after the first year the exemption can grow to cover most future increases in value. Some veterans with a total service-connected disability, honorably discharged veterans age 90 or older, and certain surviving spouses pay no property tax on the home at all. You must own and live in the home as your main home on January 1. Apply at the Tax Assessor's office in your county between January 1 and April 1. Once your application is approved, it carries over each year, but you must reapply when you turn 65 to get the larger exemption, and after changes like marriage, a death, or a new deed.

What you'll need

• Social Security numbers for all applicants
• Date of birth for all applicants
• Physical address of the property (not a P.O. box)
• Total purchase price and down payment of the property
• HUD closing statement or other transaction documents
• Current tag numbers for all vehicles you own or use
• If 65 or older: a driver's license or birth certificate
• If totally disabled: proof such as a Social Security disability award or letters from two doctors

Where to apply

Renewals

one-time (carries over each year unless something changes)