Alabama Homestead Exemption (2024)

Alabama Homestead Exemption (1)

Under Alabama law, a Homestead Exemption is a tax deduction a property owner may be entitled to if he or she owns a single family residence and occupies it as his/her primary residence on the first day of the tax year (October 1st). The Homestead Exemption is NOT automatic and the owner must go to the tax assessor’s office in the county where the property is located to file for the exemption. In Alabama, there are four Homestead Exemptions. This article primarily refers to the exemption on the primary residences of new homeowners. For an overview of each exemption, click HERE.

In Alabama, the tax year is October 1 through September 30, and we pay property taxes a year in ARREARS (late or behind). Alabama law states the tax bill becomes due on October 1 of any given year and must be in the name of the owner whose name was on record for the property on October 1 the year before. (For example, if you purchased property in January of this year, the tax bill you receive will still list the previous property owner’s name.) The current property owner is responsible for paying taxes on all property, regardless of who the bill is addressed. Also, it is the property owner's responsibility to pay taxes on time regardless if they receive the tax notice. The county is not required by law to send tax bills to property owners.

Applying for Homestead Exemption

Filing your Homestead Exemption in Alabama is easy. The key is making it a priority and getting it done on time. Here are a few key things to remember:

  • You must close and take ownership of the property before October 1.
  • The deadline to file your homestead is December 31.
  • You must show proof of ownership of the property. This is typically evidenced by a copy of the deed.
  • The property must be your primary residence.
  • You have to file your homestead exemption with the tax assessor’s office (it is not automatically done for you).
  • You only have to file your primary residence homestead exemption once.

For more information about filing your homestead exemption in your county, click HERE for contact information for each county tax assessor’s office.

Additional Resources

Alabama Homestead Exemption (2024)

FAQs

Who qualifies for homestead exemption in Alabama? ›

The property owner may be entitled to a homestead exemption if he or she owns a single-family residence and occupies it as their primary residence on the first day of the tax year for which they are applying. There are several different types of exemptions a home owner can claim in the State of Alabama.

What do I need to file homestead exemption in Alabama? ›

Homestead Exemption
  1. You must own and occupy the property as your primary residential address.
  2. There must be a signed assessment sheet.
  3. Proof of occupancy required. Drivers License for all owners. Utility Bills for all owners.

How long do you have to claim homestead exemption in Alabama? ›

Alabama law allows four types of homestead property tax exemptions. Any homestead exemption must be requested by written application filed with the Alabama Revenue Commissioner annually by December 31.

What is the benefit of homestead exemption in Alabama? ›

Under Alabama law, a Homestead Exemption is a tax deduction a property owner may be entitled to if he or she owns a single family residence and occupies it as his/her primary residence on the first day of the tax year (October 1st).

What qualifies as a homestead in Alabama? ›

A homestead is defined as a single-family owner-occupied dwelling and the land thereto, not exceeding 160 acres.

At what age do you stop paying property tax in Alabama? ›

If you are over 65 years of age, or permanent and totally disabled (regardless of age), or blind (regardless of age), you are exempt from the state portion of property tax. County taxes may still be due. Please contact your local taxing official to claim your homestead exemption.

What is the H4 homestead exemption in Alabama? ›

H4: Homestead Exemption 4 is available to all taxpayers of Alabama who own and occupy single-family residences, including manufactured homes, as their primary residences, use their property for no other purposes, AND who are age 65 or over with a combined taxable income of greater than $12,000 on their most recent ...

Does paying property tax give ownership in Alabama? ›

No. Paying taxes on property does not constitute ownership. State law allows taxes to be paid by persons other than the owner(s).

How much is property tax in Alabama? ›

Assessed Value fixed by Alabama Constitution

Amendment 373 of the Constitution provides that all real and taxable personal property will be assessed at 20% of its fair market value.

How long do you have to file homestead in Alabama? ›

Homestead Exemption Policy. One can be granted a homestead exemption if the single-family residence is their primary residence on October 1 of the tax year for which the property owner is applying. Deadline to apply is December 31st.

Do veterans have to pay property taxes in Alabama? ›

The home of a Veteran, or their Surviving Spouse, that is acquired through a VA Specially Adapted Housing Grant, regardless of its value, is exempt from all Alabama property taxes.

How long do you have to live in a house for it to be homestead in Florida? ›

Florida law requires a homeowner to own and occupy the residence as of January 1 of the year in which the application is made, although the application may be filed as late as March 1. The forms are available from each County's Property Appraiser's Office and may also be found on the internet.

What constitutes a farm in Alabama? ›

Agricultural and Forest Property: all real property used for raising, harvesting, and selling crops or for the feeding, breeding, management, raising, sale of, or the production of livestock, or for the growing and sale of timber and forest products.

What is the homestead exemption in Limestone county Alabama? ›

Any owner-occupant under 65 years of age is allowed homestead exemption on state taxes not to exceed $4,000 and on county taxes not to exceed $2,000 assessed value, both excluding all school and municipal taxes.

How to file homestead exemption in Houston County Alabama? ›

Homeowners can claim a homestead exemption at the Houston County Revenue Commissioner's office located at 462 N. Oats St., Fifth Floor, Dothan, AL 36303. For additional information on homestead exemptions, maps of parcels in Houston County and other tax questions, call (334) 677-4717 or visit www.houstoncounty.org.

Is Alabama a good place to homestead? ›

The USDA hardiness zones in Alabama range from 7a in the north to 9a along the gulf shores. The long growing season and warm temperatures in Alabama provide many opportunities for growing a variety of crops.

What is the Alabama Code for homestead exemption? ›

810-4-1-. 23 - Homestead And Principal Residence Exemptions From Property Tax. (1) PURPOSE - This rule is issued pursuant to authority contained in Section 40-9-19, 40-9-21 and 40-9-21.1 Code of Ala.

What is the homestead exemption in Florida? ›

THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION

In the state of Florida, a $25,000 exemption is applied to the first $50,000 of your property's assessed value if your property is your permanent residence and you owned the property on January 1 of the tax year. This exemption applies to all taxes, including school district taxes.

Is Alabama tax friendly for retirees? ›

Alabama is tax-friendly toward retirees. Social Security income is not taxed. Withdrawals from retirement accounts are fully taxed. Wages are taxed at normal rates, and your marginal state tax rate is 5.00%.

What is ad valorem tax in Alabama? ›

Ad valorem tax is a property tax, not a use tax, and follows the property from owner to owner. Therefore, unlike registration fees, taxes accumulate even when a vehicle is not used on the highway.

What is ad valorem? ›

Ad valorem is a Latin phrase that translates to “according to the value.” The essential characteristic of ad valorem tax is that it is proportional to the value of the underlying asset, unlike a specific tax, where the tax amount remains constant, irrespective of the underlying asset's value.

What is H1 property tax exemption in Alabama? ›

There are four types of homestead exemption. 1 . Regular Homestead Exemption (H1) is available to those who own and occupy single family residences and use this property for no other purpose. The amount of this exemption is $4,000 assessed value for state and $3,000 for county.

What is homestead exemption Alabama H1? ›

H1: Homestead Exemption 1 is available to all citizens of Alabama who own and occupy single-family residences, including manufactured homes, as their primary residences and use their property for no other purposes.

What is the homestead exemption in Geneva county Alabama? ›

Homestead. REGULAR HOMESTEAD applies to single family property owners under 65 years of age (Owner MUST occupy dwelling). The exemption is $4,000.00 assessed value on State, and $2,000.00 assessed value on County. You must come in and assess the property the first time only.

What is a quiet title tax deed in Alabama? ›

The Quiet Title Program is for applicants who want to get full fee simple ownership of a property whether it be a house or vacant lot, and have plans to redevelop, rehab, or build upon it immediately. Upon successful application, the BLBA will acquire a tax deed and clear title to the requested property.

What is a quiet title action in Alabama? ›

A quiet title lawsuit allows you to bring your case to court and have the judge decide who owns the land. The judge's decision will “quiet” the title to the land and resolve disputes between the parties. Once a court decides a quiet title action, the loser cannot continue to make claims to the property.

Does a tax deed wipe out a mortgage in Alabama? ›

Because a property tax lien has priority, if you lose your home through a tax sale process, mortgages get wiped out.

What county in Alabama has the highest property taxes? ›

Alabama is the second-lowest state for property taxes, only beaten by Hawaii. The effective property tax rate–the amount paid in taxes compared to property values–was 0.41%, for an average of $587. Based on 2021 data, Shelby County residents paid the highest average property taxes, at $905.

Which state has the best homestead exemption? ›

Texas, Florida, Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas, and Oklahoma have some of the broadest homestead protections in the United States in terms of the value of property that can be protected.

Why are property taxes so cheap in Alabama? ›

Alabama's low property taxes are in large part a product of the state's tough-to-change constitution. As a result of that, state and local governments can't raise the money they need. So they turn instead to tax measures that are easier to pass. They raise sales taxes, and sin taxes.

Do you have to apply for homestead exemption every year in Florida? ›

Do I need to re-apply for my Homestead Exemption every year? No, you do not. The Property Appraiser mails out in January an “Automatic Residential Renewal Receipt” to every homesteaded property owner. If you do not have any changes, you can keep the receipt as proof that you are eligible for the automatic renewal.

What is homestead exemption Georgia? ›

A homestead exemption can give you tax breaks on what you pay in property taxes. A homestead exemption reduces the amount of property taxes homeowners owe on their legal residence. You must file with the county or city where your home is located. Each county has different applications and required documents.

Where do I file homestead exemption in Lee County Alabama? ›

In Lee County, the application is filed with the Tax Assessors Office. The application must be filed between January 1 and April 1 of the year for which the exemption is first claimed by the taxpayer.

Who is exempt from Alabama state taxes? ›

Gifts, money, or other property you inherit or that was willed to you. Dividends on veteran's life insurance. Life insurance proceeds received because of a person's death. Interest on obligations of the State of Alabama or any county, city, or municipality of Alabama.

Do you pay land taxes in Alabama? ›

If you own real property in Alabama, you will be required to pay taxes on it. So, if you own any real property as an individual or business, you pay real property tax on it.

Do veterans get free license plates in Alabama? ›

license plate is available for Veterans who meet one of the following eligibility requirements: 10% to 50% disability rating - first license plate is exempt from registration fees. For subsequent license plates registrant must pay all applicable registration and license plate issuance fees.

Can I airbnb my homestead in Florida? ›

You can rent your home after January 1 of any year and still keep the homestead for that year, as long as the property is not rented for more than 30 days per calendar year for two consecutive years. See section 196.061(1), Florida Statutes.

At what age do seniors stop paying property taxes in Florida? ›

Senior Exemption Information

The property must qualify for a homestead exemption. At least one homeowner must be 65 years old as of January 1.

How do I get a 50000 homestead exemption in Florida? ›

Homestead Exemption: Every person who has legal or equitable title to real property in the State of Florida and who resides thereon and in good faith makes it his or her permanent home is eligible to receive a homestead exemption of up to $50,000. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes.

How do I get farm exemption in Alabama? ›

No, the department does not issue certificate of exemptions to farmers. However, there is an exemption form for certain agricultural purposes found in Section 40-23-4.3, Code of Alabama 1975. A taxpayer may print the form and fill it out; and give it to the vendor.

Can I make a farm in my backyard? ›

Backyard farming—also referred to as “urban farming” or “urban homesteading”—is a way for those who live in more populated cities and neighborhoods to transform part of their property into a small farm or “microfarm” as a way to grow and produce their own food.

What is the farm tax in Alabama? ›

Alabama tax exemptions allow farmers to sell products they grow, raise and produce without charging sales tax. This includes plants, eggs, livestock and honey.

What is the property tax rate in Limestone County Alabama? ›

Rates of Taxation For Limestone County (as Mills):
StateCounty
Limestone County (1) (2)6.523.5
Ardmore6.523.5
Athens6.523.5
Elkmont6.523.5
5 more rows

What is the Towns county homestead exemption? ›

Homestead exemptions are deducted from the assessed value of the qualifying property (40% of the fair market value). Then, the millage rate is applied to arrive at the amount of ad valorem tax due. To receive the benefit of the homestead exemption, the taxpayer must file an initial application.

What is Limestone County property tax rate? ›

Limestone County collects, on average, 0.31% of a property's assessed fair market value as property tax. Limestone County has one of the lowest median property tax rates in the country, with only two thousand six hundred twenty five of the 3143 counties collecting a lower property tax than Limestone County.

At what age do you stop paying school taxes in Texas? ›

At what age do you stop paying school taxes in Texas? Never! Unless they are totally exempt from property taxes, a homeowner continues to pay property tax even after age 65, so long as they live in that house. Homeowners aged 65 and above are eligible for a "tax-ceiling".

Does Harris County offer a homestead exemption? ›

To apply for a Homestead Exemption, you must submit the following to the Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD): A copy of your valid Texas Driver's License showing the homestead address.

What is the general homestead exemption in Harris County? ›

Harris County: Harris County provides a 20% exemption on your appraised value.

What is the H3 homestead exemption in Alabama? ›

An H3 exemption exempts property owners from all ad valorem taxes.To verify permanent and total disability, taxpayers must furnish proof via official disability awards letters from the Veterans Administration or Social Security as applicable, proof of disability income from private or government trust (Medicare card), ...

What is the H1 exemption in Alabama? ›

H1: Homestead Exemption 1 is available to all citizens of Alabama who own and occupy single-family residences, including manufactured homes, as their primary residences and use their property for no other purposes.

What does property class 3 mean in Alabama? ›

CLASS III. All agricultural, forest, and residential property, and historic buildings and sites, 10 percent.

What is the cutoff for homestead exemption in Florida? ›

THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION

In the state of Florida, a $25,000 exemption is applied to the first $50,000 of your property's assessed value if your property is your permanent residence and you owned the property on January 1 of the tax year. This exemption applies to all taxes, including school district taxes.

What is the maximum homestead exemption in Florida? ›

Homestead Exemption: Every person who has legal or equitable title to real property in the State of Florida and who resides thereon and in good faith makes it his or her permanent home is eligible to receive a homestead exemption of up to $50,000. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes.

What is H4 exemption in Alabama? ›

Exemption 4 (H4) is for persons over age 65, regardless of income. This exemption is for total state taxes and up to $3,000.00 assessed value for county. You will need proof of age and taxable income. Exemptions should be applied for before December 31 each year.

What income is not taxable in Alabama? ›

Gifts, money, or other property you inherit or that was willed to you. Dividends on veteran's life insurance. Life insurance proceeds received because of a person's death. Interest on obligations of the State of Alabama or any county, city, or municipality of Alabama.

Do senior citizens have to file taxes in Alabama? ›

Alabama exempts Social Security income in full from state income taxation. Regardless of how much money you make in retirement, you won't have to pay additional tax to Alabama on your benefits.

Does Alabama tax Social Security? ›

Alabama is tax-friendly toward retirees. Social Security income is not taxed. Withdrawals from retirement accounts are fully taxed. Wages are taxed at normal rates, and your marginal state tax rate is 5.00%.

Is Alabama tax friendly for military retirees? ›

States that don't tax military retirement pay include: Alabama. Arizona.

What are the squatters rights in Alabama? ›

Squatters must use the property in a transparent and open manner. Their acquisition cannot be made secretly. Anyone visiting the place must be able to tell that the occupant is actively using and controlling it. If the person occupying the property moves in secretly, they cannot file an adverse possession claim.

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