Unlocking Property Tax Relief: The North Carolina Homestead Exemption Tax

Lower Your Property Taxes: A Homeowner’s Guide to the NC Homestead Exemption in Kannapolis, Concord, and Harrisburg

If you own a home in Cabarrus County—specifically in the growing hubs of Kannapolis, Concord, or Harrisburg—you may be eligible for significant property tax relief. With rising property values across the Charlotte metro region, the North Carolina Homestead Exemption acts as a vital financial shield for eligible residents.

Key Takeaways for Local Homeowners:

• What it is: A state program that excludes a portion of your home's value from property taxes.
• The Benefit: An exclusion of either $25,000 or 50% of your home's taxable value (whichever is greater).
• Deadline: Applications must be submitted to the local county assessor’s office by June 1st.

Are You Eligible for Property Tax Relief in Cabarrus County?

To qualify for this "magical shield" against rising taxes in the 28081, 28025, or 28075 zip codes, you must meet the following North Carolina state requirements:

1.   Primary Residence: The home must be your primary residence as of January 1st of the application year.

2.   Ownership: Your name must be on the deed or title.

3.   Qualifying Group: You must be at least 65 years of age OR totally and permanently disabled.

4.   Income Limits: You must meet the combined spousal income eligibility limit (be sure to check the current year’s figures as they change annually).

How to Apply in Kannapolis, Concord, and Harrisburg

Applying for tax relief is a straightforward process, but it requires specific documentation to ensure approval by the county assessor.

• Step 1: Get Form AV-9: Visit the NCDOR website and download the AV-9 form for the current tax year.
• Step 2: Complete the Sections: Fill in the bubble that pertains to your status (e.g., Elderly or Disabled).
• Step 3: Income Verification: Provide the necessary income information on page 4 of the form.
• Step 4: Local Submission: Sign and date the form, then submit it to your local county assessor's office where the property is located.

Local Homeowner FAQ: NC Homestead Exemption

Q: Do I need to reapply for the exemption every year?

A: Generally, no. Once you are approved, the exemption remains in effect as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria and your circumstances don't change.

Q: Can I apply if I recently moved to Concord or Harrisburg?

A: Yes, provided you owned and occupied the property as your primary residence as of January 1st of the year you are applying.

Q: What happens if I miss the June 1st deadline?

A: Missing the deadline typically results in delayed relief, as the exemption is applied to the following tax year. However, it is always worth contacting the Cabarrus County tax office to discuss your specific situation.

Expert Advice for Cabarrus County Homeowners

Understanding your local tax benefits is a key part of smart homeownership. Whether you are living near the Atrium Health Ballpark in Kannapolis or in the quiet suburbs of Harrisburg, Our team at The Ogburn Group is here to help you navigate the complexities of the local market.

Contact us today for a personalized market report or for more information on maximizing your homeownership experience in North Carolina!