What to know as DeSoto County homeowners rush to file for homestead exemption

HERNANDO, Miss. — The DeSoto County Tax Assessor’s office is seeing an unprecedented surge in activity this year, recording an all-time high for homestead exemption applications on the very first day of the filing season.

The office recorded a record number of applications on Jan. 5, the first day the window opened for the 2026 tax year. The high volume of early interest underscores the importance of the program, which provides significant property tax relief for primary residents.

Officials are reminding homeowners that the exemption is not automatic. New applicants and those who have experienced specific life changes must apply in person at the County Administration Building in Hernando by the April 1 deadline at 5 p.m.

Preparation is Key for Applicants

To ensure a smooth filing process, the Tax Assessor’s office urges homeowners to arrive prepared with all necessary documentation. First-time applicants must visit the office at 365 Losher Street, Suite 100, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

To complete the application, homeowners should bring:

• A copy of the recorded Warranty Deed.
• Mississippi vehicle tag numbers for all cars and trucks.
• Social Security numbers and birth dates for the applicant and spouse.
• The closing or settlement statement from the home purchase.

Special Exemptions for Seniors, Veterans, and Disability

The program offers tiered savings based on age, disability, and veteran status:

• Tier 2 (Seniors/Disabled): Residents who are 65 or older or 100% disabled by Jan. 1, 2026, qualify for an exemption on the first $7,500 of assessed value. Applicants must provide proof of age or disability.
• Tier 3 (Total Exemption): Honorably discharged veterans aged 90 or older, and those with service-connected total disabilities, are eligible for a 100% Ad Valorem tax exemption.

When You Must Re-Apply

Current homestead recipients generally do not need to re-file unless a change in status has occurred. It is the responsibility of the applicant to update their information to avoid losing the credit. Homeowners must re-apply if they have:

• Married, divorced, or separated.
• Added or removed a name from the property deed.
• Changed the occupancy of the home or the property’s legal description.
• Turned 65 or become 100% disabled since their last application.

In cases involving the death of a spouse, the survivor must verify their continued eligibility with the Chancery Clerk’s office by providing a death certificate and proof of age or disability.

Learn More

Residents seeking further information or specific details on eligibility requirements can visit the DeSoto County website at https://www.desotocountyms.gov/99/Tax-Savings-Programs-Homestead. For additional questions, the Tax Assessor’s office can be reached at 662-469-8029.

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