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How the Homestead Exemption Program Can Reduce Your Property Tax Bill
Do I Qualify?
Surviving Spouse Benefit
The surviving spouse of a qualified or potentially qualified Homestead recipient may also receive the benefit if:
When can I apply for the Homestead Exemption on my primary residence?
The Lexington County Homestead Coordinator may accept applications during the following periods:
Pre-application Period
The year that you turn 65 or classified 100% disabled or legally blind, apply between July 16th and December 31st.
Application Period
The year after you turned 65 or classified 100% disabled or legally blind, apply between January 1st and July 15th.
Post-application Period
Apply between July 16th and before the first penalty date of the tax year that the exemption can first be claimed.
If you apply during the post-application period and you qualify, you may be eligible for a refund for the preceding year.
Where do I apply?You may apply for the Homestead Exemption at the Lexington County Auditor’s office. If you are unable to go the Auditor’s office, you can email the Auditor’s office at auditor@lex-co.com and request the an application or an agent can make an application on your behalf.
What documents are needed?
Proof of your eligibility is required.
Do I need to re-apply annually?
No. It is not necessary to reapply annually, except when there is a change of ownership as a result of death or a change in occupancy.
When is it necessary to reapply?
It is necessary to reapply when one of the following occurs:
What is the benefit?
The program exempts the first $50,000 of the value of your home from all property taxes. See the following examples:
Examples Without Credit | Examples With Credit | |
---|---|---|
Value of Home | $ 62,500 | $ 62,500 |
Less Homestead Credit | $0 | $ (50,000) |
“New” Value of Home | $ 62,500 | $ 12,500 |
Multiplied by 4% ratio | 2,500 | 500 |
Multiplied by millage | .285 | .285 |
Total taxes due | $ 712.50 | $ 142.50 |
This is an example and may not apply the same benefit for your property.
Assistance
The Lexington County Homestead Exemption Program Coordinator will answer any questions regarding eligibility status and application procedures. Please call (803) 785-8181 to talk to the Lexington County Homestead Exemption Program Coordinator.