The Alabama Legislature made changes this past session changing the criteria for the homestead tax exemption.

Everyone who received this exemption in the past has to be recertified for it, and must reapply in person, according to the new law. Those wishing to recertify must do so by Dec. 31 to get their exemption for next year.

While the previous threshold for applying for the exemption was set at a maximum of $7,500 of yearly household income, the new law increases that figure to $12,000 per year. This is net taxable income and does not include things like Social Security.

To recertify, the form can be picked up at the Office of the Revenue Commissioner in Linden. For more information and any questions, please contact the Marengo County Revenue Commissioner at 295-2214.

There are approximately 2,500 people in Marengo County that qualify for the exemption.