Buying the house is not the last thing you need to do.
One of the most commonly overlooked post-closing tasks—especially for first-time homebuyers—is checking whether you qualify for a homestead exemption.
And no, I am not telling you to stop paying your property taxes.
Continue paying your tax bill or mortgage escrow payment when due. The point is to make sure you do not miss an exemption that could potentially reduce what you owe in future property taxes.
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Updated for September 16 2026
What Does a Homestead Exemption Actually Do?
A homestead exemption generally applies to a home you own and use as your primary residence.
It does not lower the market value of your house.
Instead, depending on your state and county, it may reduce the taxable or assessed value used to calculate some of your property taxes.
For example, Florida says eligible homeowners may receive a homestead exemption that decreases taxable value by as much as $50,000. Georgia also provides a statewide homestead exemption, while counties may offer additional local benefits.
That is why you should check your local rules after buying a primary residence rather than assuming the exemption happens automatically.
Do You Have to Be a First-Time Buyer?
No.
A homestead exemption is generally based on ownership and primary-residence requirements—not whether this is the first house you have ever purchased.
So this applies to first-time buyers, move-up buyers and other homeowners who establish an eligible property as their primary residence.
The application process and deadline vary by location.
In Georgia, applications are handled through county tax officials, and current-year eligibility generally depends on meeting state and local ownership, residency and filing requirements. Florida applications go through the county property appraiser, with March 1 listed as the general exemption filing deadline.
Do You Only Have to Apply Once?
Often, a standard exemption may continue while you remain eligible—but do not assume that is true everywhere.
Moving, changing ownership, changing your primary residence or applying for an additional senior, disability or veteran benefit may require additional paperwork.
Always verify the rules with your local tax authority.
What About Older People Homestead Exemptions?
Some states and counties provide additional property-tax benefits for older people.
But here’s the important part:
Simply putting your mom, dad or grandparent on the title does not automatically qualify your house for a older persons exemption.
The person may need to meet requirements involving:
- Age
- Ownership
- Primary residence
- Household income
- Filing deadlines
Georgia, for example, offers additional state exemptions for certain homeowners age 62 or 65 and older, with some benefits subject to income limits. Counties may offer additional exemptions beyond the state benefits.
Never add someone to your deed solely to try to reduce property taxes without first speaking with an attorney or tax professional.
Can Disabled Veterans Get a Property-Tax Exemption?
Some states provide significant property-tax benefits to disabled veterans.
Texas is a great example.
A qualifying veteran receiving 100% disability compensation from the VA due to a 100% service-connected disability rating—or qualifying individual unemployability—may receive an exemption from taxation on the total appraised value of the veteran’s residence homestead.
That benefit applies to the qualifying residence homestead and has specific eligibility and application requirements.
What Should You Do After Closing?
Contact the government office responsible for exemptions where your home is located. That may be your county tax assessor, tax commissioner, property appraiser or appraisal district.
Ask:
“Do I qualify for a homestead exemption on my primary residence, and when is my filing deadline?”
That’s it.
It could be one of the easiest post-closing tasks you complete.
For more help understanding the full homebuying process, visit our first-time home buyer guide or use the mortgage calculator to understand how property taxes affect your total housing payment.
If you’re still preparing to buy, complete Mortgage Match to explore mortgage options that may fit your situation.
Compliance Disclaimer
This content is for general educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, accounting or financial advice. Homestead exemptions, senior exemptions, veteran exemptions, taxable-value calculations, eligibility requirements and filing deadlines vary by state, county, municipality and taxing authority. Continue paying all property taxes, mortgage payments and escrow obligations when due. Approval of an exemption is not guaranteed. Consult your local tax authority and, when appropriate, a qualified attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation. Andes Mortgage LLC, NMLS #2187991. Marcos Zambrano, NMLS #988935. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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