You can file a declared homestead by taking these steps: Buy a declared homestead form from an office-supply store, or download a form from the Registrar-Recorder's website. Fill out the form. Sign the form and have it notarized.
In 2024, the exemption ranges from a minimum of $349,720 to a maximum of $699,426, based on county median home sale prices. The increased number provides more substantial equity protection for homeowners, acknowledging the varying real estate values across the state.
The California Constitution provides a $7,000 reduction in the taxable value for a qualifying owner-occupied home. The home must have been the principal place of residence of the owner on the lien date, January 1st.
Obtain the claim form from the County Assessor's office where the property is located. Submit the completed form to the same office. Once the exemption has been granted, it remains effective until a change in eligibility occurs, such as selling or moving out of the home. Annual filing is not required.
You must occupy the dwelling as your principal residence as of January 1 of each year to qualify for the Homeowners' Exemption for that year.
You can file a declared homestead by taking these steps: Buy a declared homestead form from an office-supply store, or download a form from the Registrar-Recorder's website. Fill out the form. Sign the form and have it notarized.
Qualifying homeowners, including disabled veterans and seniors, can exempt up to $150,000 based on the value assessment of their home. Qualifying homeowners age 18 and older can exempt up to $400,000 in property value. Qualifying homeowners can get a property tax credit up to $425 in 2024.
To qualify, you must be a property owner, co-owner, or purchaser named in a contract of sale. You must occupy your home as your principal place of residence as of January 1 of each year.
Certain properties, or portions of properties, are exempt from taxation under the California Constitution. The most common types are homeowner, disabled veterans, welfare, charitable, and institutional exemptions. Visit the Assessor's Exemption webpage for more information.
Declared Homestead. Currently, the California homestead exemption is automatic, meaning that a homestead declaration does not need to be filed with the county clerk. Under the new 2021 law, $300,000–$600,000 of a home's equity cannot be touched by judgment creditors.