Homestead Exemption filing period starts Tuesday
Homestead Exemption Applications will be accepted starting at 8 a.m. Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at the DeSoto County Tax Assessor’s Office, located at 365 Losher Street, Suite 100, in Hernando.. The deadline to file is 5 p.m., March 31, 2023.
If you already have a Homestead Exemption, there is no need to reapply – unless there are specific circumstances listed at the bottom of this post. You can call 662-469-8029 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 have to 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
*Birth dates for you and your spouse or all parties applying for homestead
*Your 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 re-file reflecting this change. MS Code 27-33-3
*Has the occupancy of the homesteaded property changed? (you must re-file 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 with the Chancery Clerk’s office that you qualify for the same exemption that the deceased spouse was receiving at time of death.)
If you need further information, please call 662-469-8029.
