Homestead

Minnesota state law provides for a reduction to the general property tax for certain property that is occupied as a person's primary place of residence. These properties fall under the homestead classification.

Types of Homestead

There are two main types of homestead:

1. A residential property that is owned, occupied and used for the purpose of a homestead by its owner is a residential homestead. You must be a Minnesota resident.
   • Fact Sheet: Homestead Classification (PDF)
2. An agricultural property that is owned, occupied and used for the purpose of a homestead by its owner is an agricultural homestead. You must be a Minnesota resident. Please contact our office for more information on the qualifications for the agricultural homestead.
   • Fact Sheet: Special Agricultural Homestead (PDF)
   • Fact Sheet: Special Agricultural Homestead Owned or Leased by an Entity (PDF)
   • Fact Sheet: Special Agricultural Homestead Held Under a Trust (PDF)

Homestead Application Form

A person who meets the requirements for the homestead classification must file a homestead application (PDF) with the County Assessor to initially obtain the homestead classification. In order to qualify for a new homestead, the owner must own and occupy the property as their primary residence on or before December 1st and apply by December 15th of the year in which the property was purchased. Or the property may be occupied by a qualifying relative of the owner on January 2nd of the assessment year.  

To apply for homestead, you may either apply in person at the Assessors Office or complete the necessary application(s).  If applying in person, please bring a copy of your deed with you. While only one person has to be present, please bring the social security number of the person(s) who can not make it. If applying by mail, please mail a copy of your deed with your completed homestead application (PDF).