Homestead Exemption Filing Deadlines & Reassessment Cycles
When to file, what to bring, and what happens at reassessment — explained clearly.
When and How to File Louisiana Homestead Exemption
Louisiana's Homestead Exemption is one of the most valuable benefits available to homeowners — but you have to file it. It's free, it's permanent once filed, and it can save you hundreds of dollars per year on your property tax bill.
The Key Deadline
You must file your Homestead Exemption by December 31st of the year you purchased your home for it to apply to that tax year. Most parishes require you to file in person at the assessor's office.
Once filed, the exemption renews automatically each year — as long as you remain the primary owner and resident. You do not need to re-file annually.
What to Bring When You File
Requirements vary slightly by parish, but most assessors will ask for:
- Your recorded deed (or proof of ownership)
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of primary residence (utility bill, driver's license with property address)
- Completed Homestead Exemption application form (available at the assessor's office)
- Social Security number of all owners
When You Need to Re-File
While the exemption auto-renews each year, there are situations that require you to re-file:
You sell and repurchase
Exemption does not transfer between properties. You must file again on your new home.
Change in ownership
If ownership changes — such as adding or removing a name on the deed — re-filing may be required.
Property becomes a rental
If the home is no longer your primary residence, the exemption no longer applies.
After a refinance
In most cases, a refinance does not require re-filing — but confirm with your parish assessor.
Louisiana Reassessment Cycles
Louisiana law requires parish assessors to reappraise all property every four years. During a reassessment year, your assessed value may increase or decrease based on changes in the local real estate market.
Reassessment years vary by parish. If your assessed value increases significantly, you have the right to appeal through your parish assessor's office. The appeal window is typically open for a limited time after reassessment notices are mailed — contact your assessor for specific dates.
How Reassessment Affects Your Mortgage
If your assessed value increases at reassessment, your property tax bill will likely increase. Your mortgage servicer will recalculate your escrow payment at the next annual review, which could raise your monthly payment.
Conversely, if you've filed Homestead Exemption and your property has been reassessed down, your escrow payment may decrease. If you're unsure how a reassessment will affect your payment, reach out — I'm happy to walk you through it.
Common Questions
What if I missed the December 31st deadline?
Contact your parish assessor's office. Some parishes allow late filing, and your exemption may still be applied for the following tax year. Don't wait — file as soon as possible.
Can I file online?
Most Louisiana parishes currently require in-person filing for the initial Homestead Exemption application. Some parishes are moving toward online options — check your specific parish assessor's website for the latest process.
Does my lender handle the Homestead Exemption for me?
No. Filing the Homestead Exemption is your responsibility as the homeowner. Your lender handles your escrow account and pays your tax bill when it's due — but filing the exemption is something you must do directly with your parish assessor.
How long does it take to process?
Processing times vary by parish, but the exemption is typically applied within a few weeks of filing. You'll want to confirm with your assessor that it has been recorded before the tax year ends.
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