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.
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.
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.
People going through tough financial times often fear they will lose their homes. Fortunately, North Carolina has what are known as “homestead protections” to help prevent people from becoming homeless in the event of a financial loss or change in economic stature.
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.
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.
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.
“A homestead exemption saved the average Travis County property owner $1,876 on their taxes in 2023,” added Mann. “Exemptions continue to be the easiest and fastest way to lower your property tax bill.”
Travis County offers a 20% homestead exemption, the maximum allowed by law. The Commissioners Court also offers an additional $85,500 exemption for homesteads of those 65 years and older or are disabled.