Reminder: File for Homestead Exemption

If you closed on your primary home in 2021, the deadline to file is April 1, 2022.

A homestead exemption is a reduction in homeowners property taxes. So how much of a discount are we talking about and how do I get it? The amount of your exemption depends on your home's assessed value. Not the same as how much your home is worth. To see your home's assessed value, contact you local county tax assessor. Usually you can search the tax records on their website. To qualify, you have to apply for this exemption on or before April 1, 2022. Once you have this exemption, it is automatically renewed every year as long as you own the home.

The main thing you need to keep in mind is that you have to be living in it as your primary residence. Wherever things like you car is registered and the address you put down for filing state and local taxes. You can't use vacant lots or rental properties for this exemption, and you can't claim it for multiple properties.

There are a few things to gather in order to apply, so get this together:

• Warranty deed book and page

• Proof of residence

• Social security number

• Driver’s license with correct home address

• Car tag information

Check with your county for more information.