Homestead Exemption Deadline

Quick reminder—April 1 is the deadline to file for your Homestead Exemption in Chatham, Bryan, and Effingham Counties.

This is one of the easiest ways to save money on your property taxes, and I don’t want anyone to miss it.

1. Who this applies to

This may apply to more people than you think:

• You bought a home in 2025 and made it your primary residence
• You’ve owned your home for years but never filed
• You recently converted a home (or even an investment property) into your primary residence

2. Not sure if you've already filed?

You can check your property record online through your county’s tax assessor website—or feel free to reach out to me and I’ll help you look it up.

3. Good news—you only file ONE time

Once your homestead exemption is in place, it automatically renews each year as long as the home remains your primary residence.

4. Why this matters

Homestead exemption:

• Reduces your home’s taxable value
• Helps lower your annual property taxes
• In Chatham County, it can also cap how much your value increases over time

5. How to file (by county + direct links)

Chatham County

• Apply HERE
• Phone: 912-652-7100
• Office: 222 W Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah

File online. You’ll need your driver’s license and vehicle registration with your current address.

Important: Depending on your purchase price vs. assessed value, timing matters—reach out if you want help thinking through this.

Effingham County

• Apply HERE
• Phone: 912-754-2125
• Office: 901 N Pine St, Springfield

You can file online or in person. You’ll need your driver’s license (and a utility bill if filing in person).

Bryan County

• Application INFO
• Richmond Hill Office: 912-756-2434 | 66 Captain Matthew Freeman Dr, Suite 229
• Pembroke Office: 912-653-3880 | 11 N Courthouse St

Bryan County requires filing in person with your updated driver’s license. You can print the application from the link above and bring it with you.

If you have specific questions about your eligibility or documents, I recommend calling your county office directly—they are the best source for the most up-to-date info.

And of course, I’m always here if you want help navigating it or just want a second set of eyes on your situation.

Don't miss the deadline!