Looking to lower your property tax bill in Sandy Springs? If you own and live in your home, the Fulton County homestead exemption can put real savings back in your pocket. You just need to meet a few requirements and file on time. In this guide, you’ll learn who qualifies, how to apply, key deadlines, and a simple way to estimate what you could save. Let’s dive in.
What a homestead exemption does
A homestead exemption reduces the taxable assessed value of your primary residence. That lower value means you pay less property tax without changing millage rates. In Georgia, exemptions are set at the county level and sometimes by your city or school system, so the relief you receive can vary across Fulton County, the City of Sandy Springs, and local schools. You should always verify current rules on the Fulton County Board of Assessors site.
Who qualifies in Fulton County
Basic homestead exemption
If you own and occupy your home as your primary residence on January 1 of the tax year and file by the county deadline, you typically qualify for the basic homestead exemption. This is the starting point for most homeowners. Only one homestead exemption is allowed per person in Georgia.
Senior and disability exemptions
Fulton County may offer additional exemptions for seniors and for homeowners with permanent disabilities. Some of these programs include larger deductions or separate provisions. Check current eligibility, any income limits, and documentation on the Fulton County Board of Assessors site.
Disabled veterans and surviving spouses
Disabled veterans and qualifying surviving spouses may be eligible for substantial relief based on documentation and VA ratings. Requirements and amounts can differ. Review the latest criteria and required forms with the Board of Assessors or the Georgia Department of Revenue.
City and school components
Your tax bill includes county, city, school, and sometimes special district millage. Some exemptions apply to certain portions of the bill, while others are broader. Confirm which parts of your Sandy Springs bill are covered on the Fulton County and Board of Assessors sites.
Key dates and timing
You must own and occupy the home as your primary residence on January 1 of the tax year. New applications are commonly due by April 1 to receive that year’s exemption. If you buy after January 1, you usually apply for the next tax year. For late filings or special circumstances, contact the Fulton County Tax Commissioner or the Board of Assessors to discuss options.
How to apply in Fulton County
Follow these steps to set up your homestead exemption:
- Confirm eligibility
- You own and occupy the property as your primary residence on January 1.
- You do not claim a homestead exemption on any other property.
- Gather documents
- Proof of ownership, such as your recorded deed or closing statement.
- Georgia driver’s license or state ID showing your Sandy Springs address.
- Voter registration or a recent utility bill showing occupancy, if requested.
- Proof of age for senior exemptions or disability documentation, if applicable.
- VA documentation for disabled veteran exemptions.
- Choose how to file
- File online, by mail, or in person. Start with the Fulton County Board of Assessors for current instructions and links.
- You can also use the Fulton County site as a gateway to offices and contact information.
- Submit and track
- Apply by the county deadline for the current tax year. Keep copies of everything you submit.
- If approved, your exemption typically renews automatically each year unless your status changes.
- Update when life changes
- If you move, sell, or no longer occupy the property as your primary residence, notify the county and file a new exemption where you live.
Estimating your tax savings in Sandy Springs
Homestead exemptions reduce your assessed value, not the millage rate. Here is a simple formula you can use:
- Annual savings = exemption amount × (combined mill rate / 1,000)
Example A, basic exemption only:
- Exemption: $10,000; Combined mill rate: 30.0
- Savings ≈ $10,000 × (30/1,000) = $300 per year.
Example B, larger exemption category:
- Exemption: $20,000; Combined mill rate: 30.0
- Savings ≈ $600 per year.
Your combined mill rate includes Fulton County, the City of Sandy Springs, school, and any special districts. Rates change yearly and appear on your tax bill. For exact amounts and current millage, check the Board of Assessors at fultonassessor.org.
Common scenarios for buyers and sellers
Bought mid-year in Sandy Springs
If you moved in after January 1, you typically apply for the next tax year. Keep the county deadline in mind and file early.
Moved within or out of Fulton County
Exemptions do not transfer automatically. File a new application for your new primary residence and cancel the old one if needed. Always update your driver’s license address to match your new home.
Refinancing or title changes
If you refinance or change how the property is titled, your existing exemption usually stays in place if occupancy does not change. When in doubt, confirm with the Board of Assessors.
Avoid these common mistakes
- Missing the April filing deadline for the current tax year.
- Not updating your Georgia ID to reflect your Sandy Springs address.
- Assuming the seller’s exemption automatically carries over to you.
- Forgetting to re-verify income or age when required for certain senior programs.
- Claiming exemptions on more than one property.
Where to verify details and get help
For current exemption categories, required documents, and how to file, start here:
- Fulton County Board of Assessors for assessments and homestead instructions: fultonassessor.org
- Fulton County official portal for departments and contacts: fultoncountyga.gov
- Georgia Department of Revenue for statewide guidance: dor.georgia.gov
If you want local guidance on timing your move or preparing to buy or sell in Sandy Springs, connect with Neil Hediger Real Estate. Discover your home’s curated potential — Let’s talk.
FAQs
What is the Fulton homestead exemption for Sandy Springs homeowners?
- It reduces the taxable assessed value of your primary residence, which lowers your property taxes without changing millage rates.
When is the Fulton County deadline to apply?
- New applications are commonly due by April 1 of the tax year; confirm current dates on the Fulton County and Board of Assessors sites.
Do I need to own and occupy by January 1 to qualify?
- Yes, you generally must own and occupy the home as your primary residence on January 1 of the tax year to receive that year’s exemption.
Does the exemption cover county, city, and school taxes?
- Some exemptions apply to specific portions of your bill, while others are broader; check the Board of Assessors for which parts your exemption covers.
I bought my Sandy Springs home after January 1. What happens?
- You typically apply for the next tax year; contact the Board of Assessors for any late-filing options.
Do I have to reapply every year in Fulton County?
- Most basic exemptions renew automatically, but programs with income or special requirements may need periodic verification.
Can two co-owners each claim a homestead on different Georgia homes?
- No, state rules limit homeowners to one homestead exemption for a single primary residence.
