HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION

Jasper County Tax Assessor/Collector Tim McRee reminds homeowners that April 1 of each year is the deadline to file for Homestead Exemption credit that would allow a property owner to receive tax relief on his permanent (primary) residence.

Homestead exemption was first established in Mississippi during the Special Legislative Session of 1938. At that time the purpose of providing homestead exemption benefits was "to recognize and give effect to the principal of tax-free homes as a public policy in Mississippi, to encourage home building and ownership, and give additional security to family groups."

It is the responsibility of the homeowner to make application to take advantage of this privilege, as this exemption is not granted automatically.An applicant must apply with the Tax Assessor and qualify for the exemption before it can be granted.

There are two types of exemption, regular and additional.The regular exemption allows for a graduated tax credit up to $300 on a home, limited to the first $7,500 of assessed value.

The additional exemption allows homeowners that are 65 years old by January 1 of the filing year, or who are disabled, to file for a total exemption from ad valorem taxes on properties up to the first $7,500 of assessed value.

In Jasper County, Homestead Exemption is automatically renewed from year-to-year unless a change has been made.Reasons to file, or re-file, an application for Homestead Exemption are:

• First time filing:You or a spouse has moved into a new home or you are a new resident of Jasper County
• You or a spouse has a change in marital status (married, widowed, separated or divorced)*
• You or a spouse is over the age of 65 for the first time on January 1, 2017 or earlier (Be prepared to furnish proof of age)
• You or a spouse became disabled before January 1, 2017 (Bring Social Security Administration letters/documents to furnish proof of disability)
• You or a spouse have bought or sold property during the year of 2016.
• You or a spouse has made a deed change affecting ownership during the year of 2016.

When filing for homestead exemption, applicants need to bring Social Security numbers for both husband and wife, photo ID showing proof of age, as well as a list of vehicle tag numbers.New homeowners must provide a purchase price for their home.

If you have any questions concerning this information, please call the Jasper County Tax Assessor at the Bay Springs office, 601-764-2813.Bay Springs is the only location in which Homestead Exemption may be applied for in Jasper County.