Atlanta-area Homestead Tips
Friday, January 28, 2011
Did you close on the purchase of a property on or before December 31, 2010? If so, you need to file for Homestead exemption!
Please refer to our Blog dated January 7, 2011 for the time limits to file for Homestead. But in addition, here are a few more tips:
1. You can only obtain Homestead exemption on owner-occupied properties.
2. You file with the county in which the property is located. If the property also has city taxes, there may be an additional homestead exemption available. Most cities require a separate homestead application (except City of Atlanta), and may have a different deadline.
3. If the property is owner-occupied by a senior citizen, disabled person, low-income owner, injured veteran or veteran’s widow, there may be additional tax exemptions and discounts available. Some of these applications are due much earlier and may require a copy of last year’s income tax return or other supporting documentation.
4. If the property is rental or investment property, you should confirm that your correct mailing address is identified. You can check the GSCCCA website (look at the PT-61 form filed with the Warranty deed), the county tax website, or your HUD-1 from the closing to see if the mailing address has been shown (rather than the property address). Tax bills sent to a vacant lot or rental house rarely get forwarded or paid on time!
- Scott Askew
Posted in: Intown Atlanta Real Estate News