How to apply for Homestead exemption (property tax) for Louisiana homeowners

Who it's for

Louisiana's homestead exemption removes the first $7,500 of assessed value from state, parish, and special property taxes on the home you own and live in. Homes are assessed at 10% of market value, so this covers about the first $75,000 of your home's value. It can include up to 160 acres, and it also applies to a mobile home that is your main home. It continues for a surviving spouse who lives in the home. The exemption does not apply to city taxes, except taxes for schools (in Orleans Parish it applies to state, general city, school, and levee taxes). A person can have only one homestead exemption. Apply at your parish assessor's office. You need this exemption before you can get the special assessment level (assessment freeze) for people 65 and older.

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Make sure the home is the one you own and live in as your main home. Only one homestead exemption is allowed.
2. Check that the property qualifies. The exemption can apply to your home, including a mobile home that is your main home, and it can include up to 160 acres.
3. Apply online through your parish assessor for the homestead exemption.
4. Give any information the parish assessor asks for to review your application.
5. Keep a copy of your application details for your records.

What to expect: After you apply, the parish assessor will review your application and make the final decision. The amount you save depends on local tax rates. If approved, the exemption stays in place as long as you own and live in the home, so you do not need to renew it each year.

Renewals

apply once at the parish assessor; it stays while you own and live in the home