ATLANTA (March 31, 2025) — Last week, Sen. Jason Anavitarte (R–Dallas) introduced Senate Bill 356 to allow for residents of Polk County to apply for a homestead exemption from school district ad valorem taxes.
“Many senior citizens in Polk County have contributed taxes to their school districts for decades after their children had gone through the education system,” said Sen. Anavitarte. “They have paid into the system for long enough, and I’m proud to offer them the opportunity for financial relief as our overall economy contends with rising property taxes and rapidly increasing property values. SB 356 will help our community keep property taxes manageable, particularly for those with fixed incomes who ought to be able to enjoy their retirement.”
The legislation would allow residents aged 65 years or older to receive an exemption of either 50% or $60,000 of the assessed value of the homestead, whichever value is higher. For residents aged 70 years or older, the exemption would increase to either 75% or $80,000 of the assessed value of the homestead, whichever value is higher. Residents aged 77 years or older would be exempted from the full assessed value of the homestead.
Rep. Trey Kelley (R–Cedartown) added, “I am proud to introduce HB 848 alongside Senator Anavitarte’s SB 356, which will provide meaningful property tax relief to the senior citizens of Polk County. I want to thank the numerous senior citizens who reached out to us through this process, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for lower taxes for all Polk County residents.”
Homestead exemptions reduce the property taxes homeowners owe on their legal residence. Georgia homeowners must apply for a homestead exemption with their local county tax officials by April 1st.
For more information about the legislation, click here.
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Sen. Jason Anavitarte serves as Chairman of the Senate Majority Caucus. He represents the 31st Senate District, which includes Polk County and a portion of Paulding County. He may be reached via email at Jason.Anavitarte@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.