MS HB714

Extends the homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes to unremarried surviving spouses of totally disabled homeowners, allowing them to qualify for the same exemption benefits as their deceased spouses.

Qualifying totally disabled individuals include those with service-connected military disabilities, federal Social Security Act classifications, Railroad Retirement Act certifications, qualified retirement plan disabilities, or disabilities determined by the Department of Revenue.

Unremarried surviving spouses of disabled homeowners become eligible for a full exemption from ad valorem taxes on up to $7,500 of assessed homestead property value under Section 27-33-75(2)(a).

The exemption is split equally between school district property taxes and county general fund property taxes.

The act takes effect July 1, 2025, and applies to exemptions claimed in the 2025 calendar year with reimbursement made in the 2026 calendar year and subsequent years.