A homestead exemption protects $400,000 equity in a person's dwelling from attachment, execution and forced sale. A homestead means a dwelling in which a person resides. The dwelling may be a house, condominium, or mobile home.
North Carolina defers a portion of the property taxes on the appraised value of a permanent residence owned and occupied by a North Carolina resident who has owned and occupied the property at least five years, is at least 65 years of age or is totally and permanently disabled, and whose income does not exceed $56,850.
North Carolina excludes from property taxes a portion of the appraised value of a permanent residence owned and occupied by North Carolina residents aged 65 or older or totally and permanently disabled whose 2024 income does not exceed $37,900 annually.
Most states have homestead exemptions except New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Some states have other homestead laws such as provisions that protect surviving spouses from creditors.
The Homestead Exclusion allows you exemption of $25,000 or 50% of your home's value (whichever provides the most benefit). This only applies to your primary residence and is limited to 1 acre or less.
Qualifications. Age: At least one property owner must be the minimum qualifying age of 65 at the time of application. Residence: The property must be the owner(s) primary residence. A "primary" residence is that residence which is occupied by the property owner(s) for an aggregate of nine months of the calendar year.
To apply, complete and submit FORM AV9 and required income statements with the tax office by June 1. For disabled applicants, you must also complete FORM AV9-A signed by a physician licensed to practice medicine in North Carolina.