The new law established a three-fold homestead acquisition process: file an application, improve the land, and file for deed of title. Any U.S. citizen, or intended citizen, who had never borne arms against the U.S. Government could file an application and lay claim to 160 acres of surveyed Government land.
The permanent residence includes the dwelling, the dwelling site (not to exceed one acre), and the related improvements. Qualifications: Minimum Age 65 years; OR Totally & Permanently Disabled - No Minimum Age. Combined Income Limit $37,900 (Applicant & Spouse)
End of homesteading The Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 ended homesteading; by that time, federal government policy had shifted to retaining control of western public lands. The only exception to this new policy was in Alaska, for which the law allowed homesteading until 1986.
North Carolina differs from most state homestead laws by not specifying an acreage limit, but only allowing up to $1,000 worth of property to be declared a homestead.