Barrow County offers special homestead exemptions to eligible property owners and senior citizens. Special exemptions are based on age and/or income.

Homestead applications are being accepted at the Barrow County Tax Assessors Office through April 1 for the 2010 digest.

Eligibility for the school homestead requires the property owner be age 62 prior to Jan. 1 of the tax year, while the double homestead exemption is based on age 65 prior to Jan. 1.

When visiting the Tax Assesssors Office, those seeking homestead exemption information will likely speak with Sandra Savage, who has been serving Barrow County for 19 years.

It’s service with a smile, said Savage, who says she enjoys helping people be certain they are completing their applications properly.

"I have people who come in or call every year to be sure their filings are in order," she said.

Barrow County had 1,800 exemptions provided last year with 175 property owners visiting the office related to homestead exemptions on a single day in 2009.

Homestead exemptions can mean significant tax savings for property owners so filing, especially for seniors, is important. One of the school exemptions requires an annual tax filing so those 62 and older should contact or visit the assessors office with their completed federal income tax forms. Those who do not file can request a form or contact Savage.

If you believe you may qualify for a special exemption, please contact Sandra Savage at (770) 307-3108 extension 3108 or visit the Barrow County Tax Assessors Office, located in the Barrow County Administrative Annex at 233 E. Broad St., in Winder.