(Lawrenceville, Ga., March 6, 2012) - Tax Commissioner Richard Steele announced that the deadline for all homestead exemptions for tax year 2012 is April 1 and urges homeowners to apply.  

"I want homeowners to get any tax break they are entitled to as easily as possible," said Steele. "The best way for them to save money on their property tax is to be sure they are taking advantage of any exemption they can. We want homeowners to know what is available to them and how to apply on time in order to reap the most benefit possible." 

There are several exemptions available to qualifying homeowners. Two common exemptions include: 

• Regular Homestead (S1R): Reduces the assessed value of your property. Must own on Jan. 1 of the tax year. No age or income limit. Must be primary residence. 
• Senior School Exemption (L5A): Provides 100% exemption from Gwinnett County School District taxes on your home and up to one acre of land. Applicants must be 65 years old as of Jan. 1 of the tax year. Income limits apply.

 Commissioner Steele wants homeowners to know that they must actually apply for any exemption; no exemptions are granted automatically. However, once an exemption is granted, there is no need to apply again each year.  

To apply online, check your application status, view videos about exemptions and find further detail on the requirements, visit www.GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com. 

Email tax@gwinnettcounty.com or call (770) 822-8800 for any exemption-related questions or to request application forms. 

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The Tax Commissioner of Gwinnett County is a constitutionally-elected official responsible for billing and collection of property taxes and for administering homestead exemptions. Serving also as an agent for the State of Georgia, the Tax Commissioner registers and titles motor vehicles and collects all associated revenue. Learn more at www.GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com.