The first full week of January was a busy one for the Tate County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Office as property tax season officially began.
A total of 30 residents showed up Monday, Jan. 5 – the first official day of the filing period for homestead exemptions – and over 80 turned in paperwork before the week ended.
The Tate County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Office reminds everyone there is still ample time to file. The period for the current tax year is open until Wednesday, April 1 at 5 p.m.
Homestead exemption is a state-mandated credit that reduces the property tax burden on a resident’s primary home, but the exemption is not automatic. Residents must apply in person at the Tate County Courthouse to lock in their savings.
Homeowners are required to file a new application if they fall into any of the following categories:
• New homeowners: Anyone who purchased and occupied a home in DeSoto County during the previous calendar year.
• Senior status: Residents who reached age 65 by Jan. 1 are eligible for a significantly higher exemption.
• Disability: Residents who became 100 percent disabled during the previous year.
• Veteran status: Honorably discharged veterans aged 90 or older may qualify for a 100 percent Ad Valorem tax exemption on their homestead.
• Changes in status: Those who have married, divorced, or changed the name on their property deed since their last filing.
To ensure a smooth process, the tax assessor/collector’s office asks residents to bring the following documentation:
• Recorded warranty deed: A copy of the deed filed with the Chancery Clerk.
• Settlement statement: From the home purchase closing.
• Vehicle Information: Mississippi tag numbers for all vehicles owned by the applicant and spouse.
• Social Security Numbers: For all owners.
• Proof of Eligibility: A birth certificate or driver’s license for those over 65, or official VA/Social Security documentation for disability status.
The Tate County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Office is in the northeast corner of the courthouse and open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
