Homestead Exemption Applications will be accepted beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, at the Tate County Tax Assessor’s Office located inside the courthouse.
The deadline for filing is March 31, at 5 p.m.
If you already have Homestead Exemption, there is no need to reapply – unless there are specific circumstances involved. You can call 662-562-6011 with questions.
What is a Homestead Exemption? A Homestead Exemption is a special provision in the state’s tax laws that reduces the property taxes people pay on their primary home. Residents must apply for the program – it is not automatic.
To apply for Homestead Exemption for the first time, you need to come to the Tax Assessor’s Office and bring the following:
* A copy of your recorded Warranty Deed
* Your Mississippi car and/or truck tag numbers
* Social Security Numbers for you and your Spouse if you are married
* Birthdates for you and your spouse or all parties applying for homestead
* A closing or settlement statement
* If you are over 65 years of age by January 1st of the filing year, bring proof of birthday to qualify for additional tax exemption.
* 100% disabled individuals qualify for additional tax exemption. You will need to bring proof of disability from Veteran’s Administration or the Social Security Administration.
Reapplication Reasons: If any of the following events have occurred, you will need to re-apply for your homestead credit by coming into the Tax Assessor’s office and signing a new application to update the records. If you do not re-apply reflecting these changes, you will risk the chance of losing your homestead credit.
* Did you get a divorce/separated recently? (Must bring divorce decree)
* Did you get married? (Need copy of marriage license)
* Did you receive a property through a will or court order? (Must bring copy of will or court order)
* Did you add, remove or change a name on your deed? If so, this becomes a change in ownership. Law states that if there is a change in ownership you must re-file your homestead to reflect this change. MS Code 27-33-31
* Has the property (legal) description changed? Law states that you must refile reflecting this change. MS Code 27-33-3
* Has the occupancy of the homesteaded property changed? (you must refile reflecting this change) MS Code 27-33-31
*Are you 100% disabled American veteran? (This disability must be service related, and you must bring paperwork that states this)
* Death of a Spouse? (You do not have to resign a new application, but you do have to verify you qualify for the same exemption the deceased spouse was receiving at time of death.)
If you need more information, call 662-562-6011.
