The deadline to file real property exemptions for the current tax year is quickly approaching. From Jan. 1 to April 1, homeowners in Cherokee have the opportunity to apply for several different tax exemptions depending on qualifications.

A standard homestead exemption is available to all homeowners. This exemption allows for a $5,000 reduction off a home’s assessed value (40 percent of fair market value) for county taxes and $2,000 off the assessed value for school taxes. Homeowners may register for the homestead exemption anytime during the year, but April 1 is the deadline for the exemption for the current tax year. There is also a senior school tax exemption available for anyone over age 62. This exemption allows for a $178,680 reduction off the assessed value for 2022 and is adjusted each year based on the Social Security Index.

"We encourage residents to take advantage of these exemptions as they will help alleviate their property tax burden,” said Cherokee County Chief Appraiser Steve Swindell. “Our goal is to ensure that anyone who qualifies receives the exemptions they are entitled to."

There are other real property exemptions available for persons who are 100 percent disabled, veterans’ disability, and several more. A complete list of real property exemptions and qualifications can be found online at www.cherokeega.com/tax-assessors-office, or by contacting the Cherokee County Tax Assessors office at 678-493-6120.