Georgia homeowners who qualify for a homestead exemption are receiving additional property tax relief as the state begins distributing funds to local governments under a one-time program approved earlier this year.

Governor Brian Kemp announced Monday that the Georgia Department of Revenue is beginning the distribution of funds through the 2026 Homeowner Tax Relief Grant program.

The program was approved by the governor and Georgia General Assembly as part of the state’s amended fiscal year 2026 budget, with $950 million allocated for property tax relief.

Under the program, eligible homeowners receive an $18,000 reduction in the assessed value of their homestead for the 2026 tax year.

That does not mean homeowners receive an $18,000 payment or an $18,000 reduction in their tax bill. Instead, the reduction lowers the taxable assessed value of the home, resulting in property tax savings based on applicable local millage rates.

The actual amount saved will vary depending on the property’s location and the taxes assessed.

Homeowners who already qualify for a homestead exemption do not need to file a separate application for the grant.

The relief will appear directly on property tax bills rather than being issued as a check or direct deposit. Some homeowners may already see the savings reflected on bills they have received, while others will see the reduction as local governments continue issuing bills.

The Department of Revenue is processing applications from local governments and distributing funds as the required documentation is submitted and verified.

The program generally applies to qualifying owner-occupied homesteads, rather than rental properties or second homes.

Chattooga County homeowners who have questions about their eligibility or the tax relief shown on their bills can contact Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton’s office.

Additional information about the program is available through the Georgia Department of Revenue at dor.georgia.gov.