How to apply for Homestead exemption for homeowners 65+, disabled, or blind (property tax) in Alabama

Who it's for

Alabama homeowners who are 65 or older, permanently and totally disabled, or blind do not pay the state portion of property tax on the home they live in. County taxes may still be due, but larger county exemptions apply. If you are 65 or older with an adjusted gross income under $12,000 on your latest state income tax return, you also get a $5,000 assessed-value exemption on county taxes, including school taxes. If you are 65 or older with net taxable income of $12,000 or less on your combined federal return (you and your spouse), or you are permanently and totally disabled, your home is exempt from all property taxes. The home must be a single-family home you own and live in on the first day of the tax year, on up to 160 acres. Apply at your county tax office.

What you'll need

• Most recent state income tax return or other proof of income (for the income-based exemptions)
• Physician's affidavit of permanent and total disability, Form PT-PA-1 (if applying by disability)

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Check that the home qualifies. It must be a single-family home that you own and live in on the first day of the tax year, on up to 160 acres.
2. Gather your documents. If you are applying for an income-based exemption, have your most recent state income tax return or other proof of income ready. If you are applying based on disability, get a physician's affidavit of permanent and total disability, Form PT-PA-1.
3. Apply online through your county tax office for the homestead exemption.
4. Provide the requested income or disability proof with your application so the county tax official can review which exemption level may apply.
5. Follow up with your county tax office if more information is needed or if you want an estimate of processing time.

What to expect: After you apply, the county tax official reviews your information and makes the final decision. The amount of county tax removed depends on your age, income, and disability status. The exemption only applies to the home you own and live in, up to 160 acres. You generally apply once at the county office, but income-based exemption levels may require proof of income again.

Renewals

apply once at the county office; income-based levels may need proof of income