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Lancaster County Assessor Homestead Exemption

The homestead exemption in Lancaster County offers tax relief for eligible homeowners by reducing the taxable value of a primary residence. It is designed for owner-occupied homes and helps lower the overall property tax burden by excluding a portion of the assessed value from taxation. This benefit applies only to a property that is used as a permanent residence, not to rental properties, vacation homes, or commercial buildings. To qualify, the homeowner must meet specific residency and ownership conditions set by the county. The property must be the applicant’s primary place of living, and proof of occupancy may be required during the application process. Once approved, the exemption remains in effect as long as eligibility continues, though periodic verification may be requested by the assessor’s office.

The application process typically involves submitting a form along with supporting documents such as identification, proof of ownership, and residency details. These forms are reviewed by the assessor’s office to confirm eligibility before the exemption is applied to the property tax record. Deadlines for submission may vary each year, so timely filing is important to ensure the benefit is applied to the correct tax cycle. This exemption can significantly reduce annual tax liability for qualifying homeowners, making homeownership more affordable over time. It is especially beneficial for long-term residents who occupy their homes full-time. Property owners are encouraged to review eligibility rules carefully and ensure all required documentation is accurate before submitting an application to avoid delays or rejection.

Lancaster County Homestead Exemption Details

The Lancaster County homestead exemption helps eligible homeowners reduce the taxable value of their primary residence, lowering overall property tax costs. It is available only for owner-occupied homes and does not apply to rental or secondary properties. To qualify, the property must be used as a permanent residence, and the owner must meet county eligibility requirements. Once approved, the exemption is applied to the assessed value of the home, reducing the amount subject to taxation. Homeowners are typically required to submit an application with proof of ownership and residency. This benefit continues as long as the property remains the primary residence, with periodic checks to confirm eligibility.

What the Homestead Exemption Is

A homestead exemption removes a set amount of your home’s assessed value from property tax calculations. This means you pay taxes only on the remaining value. In Nebraska, the exemption is available to owners of primary residences who meet income, age, or disability criteria. The program is administered by each county assessor. Lancaster County Assessor follows Nebraska Department of Revenue rules. The exemption amount depends on your category and income level.

Purpose of Property Tax Relief Programs

Property tax relief programs help homeowners stay in their homes by reducing the tax burden. Rising home values can push taxes higher, making it harder for fixed‑income residents to afford their property. The homestead exemption targets those who need help most: seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans. By lowering the taxable value, the program keeps housing costs manageable.

How the Lancaster County Assessor Administers Exemptions

The Lancaster County Assessor’s office processes all homestead exemption applications. They verify ownership, occupancy, and eligibility. The office provides forms, answers questions, and reviews documentation. After approval, the exemption is applied to your property tax record. You can monitor your status through the county’s online portal or by contacting the assessor directly.

Available Property Tax Exemption Programs in Lancaster County

Lancaster County offers several exemption categories under the Nebraska Homestead Exemption law. Each category targets a specific group of homeowners. Below is a summary of the main categories based on information from the Lancaster County website.

CategoryIncome Limit
1Sliding scale applies
2Sliding scale applies
3Sliding scale applies
4VNo income limit
4SNo income limit
5No income limit
6Sliding scale applies
7No income limit

For specific income and value thresholds, contact the Lancaster County Assessor’s office or visit the Nebraska Department of Revenue website.

Benefits of the Homestead Exemption

The homestead exemption offers long-term financial relief to eligible homeowners by reducing the taxable portion of their primary residence. It plays an important role in making property ownership more affordable by lowering annual tax obligations and limiting how much of a home’s assessed value is subject to taxation. This program is designed specifically for owner-occupied properties, helping residents maintain stability in housing costs even when property values or tax rates increase over time. For many households, it creates a predictable structure for managing one of the most consistent expenses associated with homeownership.

Property Tax Savings Opportunities

The most immediate benefit of the homestead exemption is a reduction in the annual property tax bill. By removing a portion of the home’s assessed value from taxation, homeowners pay taxes on a lower taxable base. The actual savings vary depending on the property’s assessed value, exemption category, and local tax rates. Over time, these savings can become significant, especially in areas where property values continue to rise. This relief helps offset increases in market-driven assessments and reduces overall housing costs for qualifying residents.

Protection for Primary Residences

The exemption is limited to a homeowner’s primary residence, which helps strengthen housing stability within the community. By reducing tax pressure on occupied homes, it lowers the risk of financial strain that could otherwise force residents to relocate due to rising property taxes. This is particularly important for families and long-term residents who plan to stay in their homes for many years. It also supports seniors who may face fixed or limited incomes, allowing them to remain in their homes without being heavily impacted by rising valuations.

Long-Term Tax Relief for Qualified Homeowners

Once approved, the homestead exemption generally continues year after year without requiring repeated applications, as long as eligibility conditions are maintained. This creates a stable and predictable tax environment where homeowners can plan their finances with greater confidence. If ownership or residency status changes, the exemption may be reviewed or removed. For eligible homeowners, this ongoing benefit helps reduce uncertainty and provides consistent relief across multiple tax cycles, making it an important part of long-term financial planning.

How Exemptions Affect Property Tax Calculations

Property taxes are calculated by applying the local mill levy to the taxable value of a property. The homestead exemption reduces this taxable value before the calculation is made, which directly lowers the final tax amount owed. For example, if a home’s assessed value is partially exempted, only the remaining taxable portion is used in the formula. This reduction can significantly influence the total tax liability, especially in areas with higher mill rates or rapidly increasing property assessments.

Homestead Exemption Eligibility Requirements

Homestead exemption eligibility in Lancaster County is based on clear ownership, residency, and documentation standards designed to ensure the benefit is applied only to qualified primary residences. Applicants must meet specific requirements that confirm both legal ownership and actual occupancy of the property. These rules help maintain fairness in the property tax system while ensuring the exemption supports homeowners who actively live in their homes. Each application is reviewed carefully using county records and supporting documents before approval is granted.

Primary Residence Requirement

To qualify, the property must function as the homeowner’s permanent and principal place of living. It should be the address where the owner resides throughout the year, not a rental unit, vacation home, or property used for commercial purposes. This requirement ensures the exemption is applied only to occupied homes that serve as the applicant’s everyday residence. The intent is to support genuine homeowners rather than investment or secondary property use.

Ownership Requirements

Eligibility depends on verified legal ownership of the property. The home may be owned individually, jointly with another person, or held within certain trust structures, provided proper documentation is in place. The assessor’s office confirms ownership through official deed records, title information, and county property databases. This verification step ensures that only legitimate property owners receive the exemption and that ownership records align with county assessment data.

Occupancy Requirements

The homeowner must actively live in the property as their primary place of residence. Short-term absences such as travel, hospitalization, or temporary stays in assisted living facilities may still qualify if there is a clear intent to return and maintain the home as the primary address. The property should also be used consistently for official purposes, including voter registration, tax filings, and identification records, which further supports its status as a permanent residence.

One Exemption Per Qualified Residence

A homestead exemption can only be applied to one eligible property per household. When multiple owners share a residence, they must determine which individual will file the exemption claim. Married couples are typically allowed to file jointly under a single exemption where applicable. However, the same homeowner cannot apply for multiple homestead exemptions across different properties at the same time, ensuring the benefit remains limited to a single primary residence.

Eligibility Verification Standards

Applications are reviewed against county and state databases to confirm accuracy. The assessor may request supporting documents such as income tax returns, proof of age, disability certification, or residency verification. Providing incomplete or incorrect information can delay processing or result in denial of the application.

Common Reasons Applications Are Denied

Applications may be rejected if the property is not the applicant’s primary residence as of the required filing date. Denial can also occur when ownership records are incomplete, such as improperly documented trusts or missing deed information. Exceeding income limits for certain exemption categories, failing to submit required documents, or missing application deadlines without approved extensions are also common reasons for rejection.

Types of Property Tax Exemptions Available

Property tax exemptions provide targeted relief by reducing the taxable value of real estate for qualifying property owners. These programs are designed to support specific groups such as homeowners, seniors, veterans, disabled individuals, and certain nonprofit or agricultural properties. Each exemption type follows its own eligibility criteria and application process, offering different levels of tax reduction depending on the property use and owner qualifications. The available exemption options helps property owners identify potential savings and ensure they are not paying more than required under local tax rules.

Senior Property Tax Exemption

Homeowners aged 65 or older with qualifying income levels may be eligible for Category 1 relief. The benefit amount is determined based on income, with greater reductions available to lower-income seniors. This exemption is commonly used in Lancaster County to support retirees who rely on fixed or limited income sources. Applicants are typically required to provide proof of age, residency, and annual income details to determine eligibility and exemption level.

Disabled Veteran Exemption

Veterans with a 100% permanent service-connected disability may qualify for Category 3 exemption. This program provides full relief without income restrictions, offering significant tax reduction for those who meet the disability criteria. Applicants must submit official VA documentation confirming their disability rating along with supporting identification and property ownership records. This exemption recognizes service-related disabilities and helps reduce long-term financial pressure on qualifying veterans.

Gold Star Spouse Benefits

Surviving spouses of military service members who died while on active duty may qualify under Category 5. This exemption does not include income limitations, provided the required documentation of service and death is submitted. It is designed to offer financial stability and continued support to families of fallen service members by reducing the property tax burden on their primary residence.

Additional Property Tax Relief Programs

In addition to homestead exemptions, Nebraska provides several other property tax relief options based on age, disability, income level, and military service status. These programs are administered through state and county offices, including the Nebraska Department of Revenue and the Lancaster County Assessor. Property owners are encouraged to review all available relief categories to identify programs that may further reduce their annual tax obligations.

Required Documents for Homestead Exemption Applications

A homestead exemption application requires specific documents to confirm ownership, residency, and eligibility under county rules. These records help the assessor verify that the property is being used as a primary residence and that the applicant meets all qualification standards. Submitting complete and accurate documentation is important to avoid delays in processing and to ensure the exemption is applied correctly to the property tax record.

Proof of Ownership

Applicants must submit documentation that confirms legal ownership of the property. Acceptable records include a recorded deed, recent property tax statement, or contract of sale. The assessor’s office will cross-check this information with official county records for verification. If the property is held in a trust, a complete trust document must be provided showing the applicant’s legal interest or beneficiary status.

Proof of Primary Residence

Documents that clearly show the property is the applicant’s main residence are required. Commonly accepted records include a driver’s license or state-issued ID displaying the property address. Additional supporting documents such as utility bills, voter registration records, or bank statements with the same address may also be used. All documents should be current and reflect active occupancy.

Government Identification

A valid government-issued photo ID is required for identity verification. This may include a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport. The name on the identification must match the ownership name listed on the property deed. In cases of joint ownership or married couples, both individuals may be required to provide identification depending on how the property is titled.

Supporting Eligibility Documentation

Additional documents depend on the exemption category. Senior applicants should provide proof of age such as a birth certificate or passport. Disability-based claims may require Social Security award letters or VA disability documentation. Veterans must include a DD-214 form or VA rating letter. Surviving spouses applying for benefits should provide a death certificate along with a marriage certificate to confirm eligibility.

Documentation Review Tips

Keep copies of all submitted documents for personal records. Always retain original paperwork in a safe place. Use the official assessor checklist, if available, to avoid missing required items. When uncertain about any requirement, contacting the assessor’s office before submission can help prevent delays or rejection of the application.

How to Apply for a Homestead Exemption

Applying for a homestead exemption involves a straightforward process designed to help eligible homeowners receive tax relief on their primary residence. The application typically requires submitting a completed form along with supporting documents that verify ownership, residency, and eligibility. Once reviewed by the assessor’s office, approved applications are applied to the property’s assessed value, reducing the taxable amount for future tax bills. Following the correct steps and meeting deadlines ensures the exemption is processed without delays.

Online Filing Options

Lancaster County may provide an online filing system for submitting Form 458 electronically. Applicants can access the official county website, complete the required fields, and upload scanned copies of supporting documents. After submission, the system generates a confirmation number that serves as proof of filing. It is important to save this reference number for future tracking or verification purposes. Online submission is often the fastest method, reducing paperwork and processing delays.

Filing by Mail

Applicants may also complete Form 458 manually and submit it by mail. The form can be downloaded from the Nebraska Department of Revenue or the Lancaster County Assessor’s website. Once completed, applicants should attach all required supporting documents and send the package to the assessor’s office. Using certified mail or another trackable delivery service is recommended to confirm receipt. The official mailing address is available on the county’s website and should be verified before sending documents.

In-Person Application Process

Homeowners can apply directly by visiting the Lancaster County Assessor’s office during regular business hours. Applicants should bring a completed application form along with original supporting documents for verification. Staff members are available to review submissions, clarify requirements, and assist with any questions during the process. In some cases, scheduling an appointment in advance may help reduce waiting time and ensure faster service.

Application Review and Verification

After submission, all applications are reviewed by the assessor’s office to confirm eligibility and accuracy. This includes cross-checking information with county and state databases. The review process may take several weeks depending on application volume. If any required information or documentation is missing, the office will contact the applicant for corrections. Prompt response to these requests helps prevent delays or possible denial.

Processing Timeframes

Processing typically takes between 30 to 60 days from the date of submission. Early filing within the application period increases the likelihood that the exemption will be applied to the current tax cycle. Applications submitted near or after deadlines may not be reflected in the current year’s tax bill and could be carried forward to the following tax period, delaying potential savings.

After Your Application Is Approved

Once a homestead exemption application is approved, the benefit is applied directly to the property’s assessed value for the current tax cycle. This reduces the taxable portion of the home and lowers the overall property tax bill. Homeowners may begin seeing the adjustment reflected on upcoming tax statements, depending on when the approval was processed. In some cases, the exemption may also apply retroactively if allowed under county rules. After approval, it is important to keep records updated and ensure continued eligibility so the benefit remains active in future years.

When the Exemption Takes Effect

If the application is submitted before the required deadline, the homestead exemption is generally applied to the current tax year, and the reduction will appear on the upcoming property tax bill. Late submissions may not be processed in time and are typically applied to the following tax cycle, depending on county rules and assessment schedules. The timing of approval plays an important role in when the tax savings become visible.

How to Verify Approval Status

Applicants can confirm approval by checking the Lancaster County property records portal or by contacting the assessor’s office directly. Once approved, the exemption is usually displayed on the property record as a deduction from the assessed taxable value. This verification step helps ensure that the benefit has been correctly applied to the account.

Reviewing Assessment and Tax Records

After approval, homeowners should carefully review their next tax statement to confirm the exemption has been applied. The taxable value should reflect a reduction compared to the original assessment. If the expected adjustment does not appear, it is important to contact the assessor’s office promptly to resolve any discrepancies or processing errors.

Maintaining Eligibility Requirements

To continue receiving the exemption, the homeowner must maintain primary residency and meet all program requirements. Income-based categories may be reviewed periodically, and changes in financial status could affect eligibility. Any significant changes, especially income increases or residency updates, should be reported to the assessor to ensure compliance with program rules.

Situations That May End Eligibility

Eligibility may end if the property is sold or if the homeowner permanently moves out. Renting the property to others can also disqualify the exemption, as it is limited to owner-occupied residences. Failure to respond to required verification requests may result in removal from the program. In the event of the homeowner’s death, the exemption may be discontinued unless a surviving spouse qualifies for continued benefits under applicable rules.

Renewal and Exemption Maintenance

The renewal and maintenance of a homestead exemption ensure that eligible homeowners continue receiving property tax relief without interruption. Once approved, the exemption typically remains active as long as the property continues to meet eligibility requirements, such as primary residency and income limits where applicable. However, periodic reviews and updates may be required to confirm that all conditions are still being met. Keeping information current with the assessor’s office helps prevent delays, loss of benefits, or unnecessary reapplication in future tax cycles.

Automatic Renewal Rules

In Nebraska, homestead exemptions are generally renewed automatically each year as long as the property continues to meet eligibility requirements. Most homeowners do not need to reapply annually. However, the state or assessor’s office may request periodic verification to confirm continued eligibility, and timely response to these requests is necessary to avoid interruption of benefits. Failure to complete required confirmations may result in temporary suspension of the exemption.

Reapplication Requirements

A new application is required if the homeowner moves to a different primary residence within Nebraska. The exemption is tied to the specific property and does not transfer automatically between homes. Even if a homeowner previously received an exemption in another county, they must submit a fresh application in Lancaster County for the new property to establish eligibility.

Address Changes and Residency Updates

Keeping contact information up to date is important for receiving official notices and exemption-related communications. Homeowners should notify the assessor’s office whenever their mailing address changes. Updates can usually be made through the county’s online portal or by contacting the office directly. Accurate address records help ensure that renewal forms, notices, and verification requests are received on time.

Ownership Changes and Transfers

Any change in property ownership may affect exemption eligibility. This includes transferring the property into a trust, adding or removing a spouse from the deed, or selling the home. Such changes should be reported promptly, typically within 30 days, so the assessor can review the exemption status. Depending on the situation, the exemption may be adjusted, continued, or require a new application.

Updating Assessor Records

Homeowners should report any changes that may impact eligibility, such as reaching age thresholds or qualifying for disability status. These updates can affect the exemption category and the level of tax relief received. For example, turning 65 may allow access to a different benefit tier. Keeping records accurate ensures the exemption amount reflects the correct qualification status and provides the appropriate level of tax savings.

Filing Deadlines and Important Dates

Filing deadlines and key dates play an important role in determining when a homestead exemption takes effect and how quickly property tax savings begin. Submitting applications within the required time frame ensures that eligible homeowners receive benefits for the correct tax year without delays. Missing deadlines can postpone approval to the next assessment cycle, affecting when the reduction appears on tax bills. Staying aware of important dates helps property owners plan ahead and avoid missing out on available tax relief.

Annual Application Deadlines

For 2026, the Nebraska Homestead Exemption filing period typically begins on February 2. Applications must be submitted to the Lancaster County Assessor by the deadline established each year by the Nebraska Department of Revenue. Exact cutoff dates may vary, so homeowners should confirm current-year timelines through the official county website to ensure timely submission and eligibility for that tax cycle.

Late Filing Rules

Applications submitted after the deadline may still be accepted until the end of the tax year in some cases; however, the exemption will not apply to the current year’s taxes. Instead, the benefit will begin in the following tax year. While there is generally no financial penalty for late filing, missing the deadline results in the loss of one year of potential tax relief.

Correction Periods

In certain situations, late filing may be allowed if the delay was caused by exceptional circumstances such as illness, military duty, or a natural disaster. Supporting documentation is required to justify the delay. Approval of late submissions is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and the assessor retains full discretion to accept or deny the request.

Appeal and Review Deadlines

If an application is denied, homeowners have 30 days from the date of the denial notice to request a formal review. Appeals are handled through the county board of equalization. A written appeal must be submitted to the Lancaster County Assessor’s office, along with any supporting evidence that demonstrates eligibility for the exemption.

Application Denials and Appeals

Application denials for the homestead exemption occur when eligibility requirements are not fully met or when required documentation is incomplete or inaccurate. Common issues include residency discrepancies, missing ownership proof, late submissions, or failure to meet income or category-specific rules. When a denial is issued, the notice typically tells the reason so the applicant can address the issue before taking further action.

Common Denial Reasons

One of the most common reasons for denial is the property not qualifying as the applicant’s primary residence. Other frequent issues include income exceeding program limits, incomplete applications, or ownership records that cannot be verified through county systems. Each denial notice clearly states the specific reason so the applicant can take corrective action if needed.

Missing or Incomplete Documentation

Applications may be rejected if required documents are missing or incomplete. In many cases, the assessor’s office allows a limited timeframe to submit the missing information. Failure to respond within the given period typically results in denial. Carefully reviewing all requirements before submission helps prevent delays and improves the chances of approval.

Residency Verification Issues

Residency is verified through multiple records such as voter registration, driver’s license details, and tax filings. If these records show a different address than the property in question, the application may be denied. Applicants may need to provide updated documentation or a written explanation to clarify discrepancies and confirm the property as their primary residence.

Requesting a Review

If a denial appears incorrect, applicants can request an informal review by contacting the assessor’s office. During this stage, submitting additional or corrected documentation can often resolve the issue without further escalation. Many cases are successfully corrected at this level once missing information is provided.

Filing an Appeal

If the issue is not resolved through informal review, a formal appeal may be filed with the Lancaster County Board of Equalization. This must typically be submitted within 30 days of the denial notice. The appeal should include a written explanation along with supporting evidence. The board reviews all materials before issuing a final decision on eligibility.

Common Homestead Exemption Mistakes

Applying for a homestead exemption can be straightforward, but small errors often lead to delays, reduced benefits, or outright denial. Many issues arise from missing documents, incorrect residency details, or misunderstanding eligibility rules. Knowing the most frequent mistakes helps homeowners prepare a complete and accurate application, improving the chances of approval and ensuring the exemption is applied without unnecessary setbacks.

Missing Filing Deadlines

A frequent mistake is missing the annual application deadline, which results in losing eligibility for that tax year. Many homeowners delay filing or overlook opening dates and end up waiting an additional year for benefits. Setting reminders and submitting early helps avoid last-minute issues and ensures the exemption is applied on time. Late submissions typically do not qualify for the current tax cycle, leading to a full year of missed savings.

Assuming Eligibility Is Automatic

Another common error is assuming homeownership alone guarantees approval. Eligibility depends on meeting specific requirements such as income limits, age, disability status, or residency conditions. Failing to review official criteria before applying often leads to unexpected denials. Carefully checking qualification rules helps ensure the application matches program requirements from the start.

Submitting Incomplete Information

Incomplete forms are a leading cause of delays and rejections. Missing signatures, blank fields, or incorrect details can prevent proper processing. Reviewing the application thoroughly before submission is essential. Using the official checklist provided by the Lancaster County Assessor helps ensure all required sections and documents are included.

Failing to Report Ownership Changes

Changes in ownership, such as adding a spouse to the deed or transferring the property into a trust, must be reported promptly. Not updating these details can lead to reassessment or even retroactive loss of the exemption. The assessor’s office should be notified within the required timeframe to keep records accurate and avoid complications.

Not Updating Residency Information

Moving to a different property within the county requires a new application, even if the new home is nearby. The exemption does not automatically transfer between properties. Failing to update residency status can result in incorrect tax calculations or loss of benefits. Proper updates ensure the exemption is applied only to the correct primary residence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Homestead Exemption is a property tax relief program for homeowners who occupy their primary residence. It reduces the taxable value of your home, which lowers your annual property tax bill. Each state and county sets its own rules, deadlines, and application forms. Some jurisdictions require annual renewal. Others grant the exemption until you move or sell. This FAQ covers how to apply, who qualifies, and where to get help.

What is a Homestead Exemption and how does it reduce my property taxes?

A Homestead Exemption removes a portion of your home s assessed value from taxation. For example, in Texas your school district exemption is $100,000 for the 2026 tax year. If your home is valued at $200,000, you only pay school taxes on $100,000. In Florida the standard exemption is $25,000 off the first $50,000 of assessed value. This directly lowers your tax bill. You must own and occupy the home as your primary residence on January 1 of the tax year to qualify.

How do I apply for a Homestead Exemption in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania?

Lancaster County offers a Homestead/Farmstead Exclusion. To apply, fill out the application form and mail it to the Lancaster County Board of Assessment Appeals at 150 N. Queen Street Suite 310, Lancaster, PA 17603. Faxed applications are not accepted. The enrollment deadline is March 1 each year. For questions, call the Lancaster County Assessment Office at (717) 299-8381. You must use the property as your primary residence. Renters and second homes do not qualify.

What documents and forms do I need to file for a Homestead Exemption in 2026?

Each county requires proof of residency and ownership. Common documents include a copy of your deed, driver s license showing the property address, and a completed application form. In Texas use Form 50-114 from the Comptroller. In Nebraska file Form 458 with your county assessor after February 2, 2026. Florida uses Form DR501. Some states also ask for your Social Security number to verify identity. Check your county assessor s website to download the correct form or request one by mail.

When is the deadline to apply for a Homestead Exemption and can I apply late?

Deadlines vary by state. Lancaster County, PA sets the deadline as March 1. Texas requires filing by April 30 for the current tax year. Nebraska s application period opens February 2 each year and ends on a date set by the county. Florida allows late filing until March 2 of the following year, but a late penalty may apply. Contact your local assessor s office to confirm the exact cutoffs. If you miss the deadline, ask if a late application is accepted and what penalty or delay you can expect.

Who qualifies for a Homestead Exemption on a primary residence?

You qualify if you own and occupy the home as your primary residence on January 1 of the tax year. Most states require you to live there at least 10 months of the year. Seniors age 65 or older, disabled individuals, and surviving spouses may receive additional exemptions. For example, Texas gives homeowners over 65 an extra $60,000 school district exemption. Florida offers low-income seniors up to $50,000 additional exemption. Rental properties, vacation homes, and investment properties do not qualify. You must provide proof of occupancy.

Where can I call or email for help with my Homestead Exemption application?

For local help, contact your county assessor or appraisal district office. In Lancaster County, PA call (717) 299-8381. Philadelphia residents can call the Homestead Hotline at (215) 686-9200. In Florida, contact your county property appraiser; Pinellas County phone is (727) 464-3207. Tarrant County, Texas offers help at (817) 284-4063. Nebraska property owners call their county assessor. Many offices also accept email: for example, Palm Beach County accepts questions at myexemption@pbcpao.gov. Always check the official county website for the most current contact details.