MississippiSB 28822026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

Homestead exemption; revise certain provisions regarding application for.

Sponsored By: Jeremy England (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Ways and MeansFinance

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.

Felony penalties for homestead fraud

It is a felony to get a homestead exemption by fraud or to willfully fail to report required changes. On conviction, you can be fined up to $5,000, jailed up to two years, or both. This applies beginning January 1, 2026.

Easier homestead renewal for homeowners

If you have a valid homestead claim on file from 1991 or later, you do not reapply each year. The exemption continues if the property’s description, ownership, use, and occupancy did not change since January 1 of last year. If it changed, you must file a new application, unless you are an eligible surviving spouse. A conveyance where the grantor keeps a life estate does not require a new application. You only have to state the purchase price and any unpaid principal once, and you do not have to provide a closing statement. If the courthouse cannot take applications because of damage, the Governor can extend the deadline by up to 30 days. These changes start January 1, 2026.

New homestead filing rules and mail fee

You must file your homestead application with the county tax assessor by April 1 of the current year. Applications not on file by April 1 are not accepted, unless the Governor issues an official extension. Your application must list the owner’s birth date, Social Security number, phone, and email; if married, list your spouse’s same information. You must also state how many non-family occupants live in the home and their status. Counties may charge $0.50 for each mailed renewal they receive, if the board authorizes it; there is no charge for returning a renewal in person. These rules start January 1, 2026.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Jeremy England
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Albert Butler
Democratic • Senate
Kamesha B. Mumford
Democratic • Senate
Sollie B. Norwood
Democratic • Senate
Sarita Simmons
Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 222 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/19/2026

Concurred in Amend From House

Yes: 52 • No: 0

House vote • 3/5/2026

Passed As Amended

Yes: 118 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/5/2026

Passed