PEARL RIVER — Residents are now eligible to file Homestead Exemption applications at the Picayune or Poplarville tax assessor’s office. Once approved, a reduction in annual property taxes will be applied to an eligible applicant’s primary home. 

The Homestead Exemption is a property tax break based on the applicant’s qualifications. The three-tier system helps applicants estimate how much exemption they may receive. 

Regular Exemption (Tier 1) is available to any qualified applicant under the age of 65 and may provide up to $300, depending on the property. 

Age and Disability Exemption (Tier 2) is for applicants who are at least 65 years old or became disabled during the year of application. Supporting documentation must be provided. 

Total Exemption (Tier 3) applies to disabled U.S. military veterans or spouses of deceased U.S. veterans. 

According to the Department of Revenue, county residents must provide the following to apply: 

— Social Security numbers for all applicants 

— Birthdates for all applicants 

— Physical address of the property 

— Total purchase price of the property 

— Down payment amount 

— HUD closing statement or other transaction documents 

— Current vehicle tag numbers for any vehicles owned or in the applicant’s possession 

The application period runs from Jan. 1 through April 1. For more information on requirements and applications, visit the Mississippi Department of Revenue website.