Georgia farmers and agricultural producers who participate in the state’s agricultural sales tax exemption program will soon receive new GATE cards in the mail, and officials are reminding cardholders to provide their updated information to retailers where they make tax-exempt purchases.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture says new wallet-sized 2027 GATE cards will be mailed in November to participants whose program certificates expire in 2027 or later.

The Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption program, commonly known as GATE, allows qualified farmers and agricultural producers to purchase certain supplies, equipment and other agricultural products without paying state and local sales taxes.

Farmers in Chattooga County and throughout Georgia who use the program should make sure retailers have their current GATE card information when making eligible purchases. Retailers are required to verify that a customer’s card is active before allowing a sales tax exemption.

The exemptions can apply to qualifying agricultural purchases such as fertilizer, seed, livestock supplies, farm machinery and certain types of fuel used in agricultural operations. Not every purchase made by a farmer qualifies for the exemption.

GATE certificates are valid for three years, but participants receive a new card each calendar year. Farmers whose certificates remain active do not need to submit a new application simply to receive their annual replacement card.

The Department of Agriculture also announced that applications and renewals for the 2027–2029 certification period will open Monday, November 2. Farmers whose certificates have already expired must submit a new application rather than renew an expired certificate.

Participants who have changed their mailing address or business name should update their information with the Department of Agriculture to avoid delays in receiving their cards.

Farmers can check their card status, update information and learn more about the program at agr.georgia.gov/GATE.

For assistance, the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s GATE customer service office can be reached at 855-327-6829.

Sources: Georgia Department of Agriculture — GATE Program, GATE Frequently Asked Questions and Renewal Information; Georgia Department of Revenue — Agricultural Sales Tax Exemption Rules.