Homestead Exemption Online Filing

Homestead Exemption Online Filing simplifies securing valuable property tax savings for homeowners. Many primary residence owners miss out on significant property tax relief because of confusing paper forms or missed deadlines. The shift to a modern online filing system changes this. This digital approach to the homestead application and exemption application makes the process quicker, more accurate, and accessible. For residents seeking the Cobb County homestead exemption or the Florida homestead exemption, the online tax filing method is the most efficient way to claim your tax reduction. We detail the specific homestead eligibility requirements and the necessary steps for homestead registration. This online property exemption resource helps you confirm your homestead eligibility before you begin the homestead filing process. Using the online exemption filing system ensures timely submission, avoiding issues that delay your property tax exemption benefits. This streamlined method eliminates the stress of traditional filing, ensuring you secure the tax relief programs you qualify for. This real estate tax exemption is crucial for maximizing property tax discounts. We cover the homestead rules and guidelines for both the Cobb County property tax and the Florida property tax systems.

Homestead Exemption Online Filing secures your real estate tax exemption by simplifying the complex homestead filing process. We specifically address the requirements for the Cobb County tax exemption and the Florida tax exemption, two areas where digital submission is highly recommended. The online tax filing system requires you to accurately complete the homestead application form and provide proof of eligibility. You must meet all exemption qualifications to receive the full property tax savings. We simplify the Cobb County online filing steps and explain how to manage your Cobb County homestead registration digitally. This resource clarifies the homestead filing deadline, ensuring your exemption application gets processed on time. Understanding the homestead eligibility requirements is vital for securing these tax relief programs and property tax discounts. Learn about the specific homestead rules and guidelines that determine your exemption for primary residence. This streamlined, online filing process maximizes your property tax exemption benefits, leading directly to a significant tax reduction. We provide the expert information you need to move from application to approval with confidence.

Homestead Exemption Online Filing in Cobb County

The Cobb County homestead exemption provides substantial property tax savings for homeowners who use a home as their primary residence. This exemption reduces the taxable value of your home, which directly lowers your annual property tax bill. It is a key tax reduction program for permanent residents of Cobb County, Georgia.

Securing this exemption involves a one-time application, which is now easily completed through the online exemption filing system. You must own and live in the property as your primary legal residence on January 1st of the tax year to qualify. Failing to file by the April 1st homestead filing deadline means you waive the exemption for that year.

How Primary Residence Status Reduces Property Taxes

The property tax calculation begins with the Fair Market Value (FMV) of your home. The Assessor then determines the Assessed Value, which in Georgia is 40% of the FMV. The homestead exemption is a fixed dollar amount deducted from this Assessed Value.

For example, the Basic Cobb County homestead exemption offers a $10,000 reduction in the county general and county school general tax categories. This lowered taxable value is what the millage rate is applied to, resulting in lower property tax payments. This mechanism provides a direct property tax savings benefit for homeowners.

How Arizona Property Tax Law Treats Owner-Occupied Homes

Other states use similar methods to offer primary residence relief, though the specific rules differ. In Arizona, property tax law classifies owner-occupied homes as Class 3 property. This classification is important because it is subject to a 10% assessment ratio.

This 10% ratio is significantly lower than the assessment ratio for commercial properties, which is 18%. Arizona law also enforces the one-primary-residence rule, disqualifying any homeowner who claims a similar homestead exemption in another state. This rule is a common feature across most US jurisdictions offering real estate tax exemption programs.

Cobb County Assessor’s Role in Property Classification

The Cobb County Board of Tax Assessors is responsible for determining the Fair Market Value of your property annually. They also handle the classification of properties, which includes verifying the primary residence status needed for the homestead exemption. The Tax Commissioner’s Office processes the homestead application form and applies the exemption.

The Assessor’s office uses various methods to ensure proper classification, including reviewing deeds, occupancy records, and documentation submitted during the homestead registration. Correct property classification is the foundation for receiving any property tax exemption benefits.

Other Property Tax Exemptions You May Qualify For

Beyond the basic homestead exemption, Cobb County offers several additional property tax relief options. These exemptions address specific homeowner groups, such as seniors, veterans, and disabled individuals. You must apply for each exemption separately, even when filing for the basic homestead exemption.

These specific exemptions often require income affidavits, proof of age, or disability documentation. Filing your basic homestead application is often the first step to securing these other valuable property tax discounts.

Key Benefits of Primary Residence Property Tax Relief

The primary residence property tax relief, secured through the Homestead Exemption Online Filing, offers two main financial advantages. First, it lowers your current tax bill through a deduction. Second, in states like Florida, it limits how much your home’s assessed value can increase each year.

These benefits combine to create substantial, long-term property tax savings. The ability to file your exemption application online makes these savings more accessible than ever before.

Reduced Assessment Ratio for Owner-Occupied Homes

While Georgia’s assessment ratio is fixed at 40% of fair market value, the benefit comes from the direct dollar reduction. Other jurisdictions, like Arizona, use a reduced assessment ratio for owner-occupied homes (Class 3 is 10%). This is a different approach to achieving the same goal: providing tax reduction for primary residences.

The Cobb County Basic Homestead Exemption reduces the assessed value by a set amount, such as $10,000. This fixed reduction is applied before the millage rate calculation, providing immediate and predictable tax relief.

Limited Property Value Protection

Florida’s homestead exemption includes a feature known as the “Save Our Homes” (SOH) benefit. Once the Florida homestead exemption is granted, the assessed value of the property cannot increase by more than the lesser of 3% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI) annually.

For example, the SOH cap was 3% for the 2024 tax year. This property value protection creates significant long-term property tax savings, especially in rapidly appreciating housing markets. This is a powerful feature of the Florida tax exemption that goes beyond the initial tax reduction.

Long-Term Tax Savings for Homeowners

The true value of the homestead exemption is seen over many years. In Cobb County, the automatic renewal of the basic exemption ensures continued property tax savings without yearly reapplications. This stability helps homeowners budget for their long-term financial health.

Homeowners who qualify for age-based exemptions, such as the Age 62 School Tax Exemption in Cobb County, can achieve even greater tax reduction. This specific exemption removes all county school taxes, which can be a substantial part of the total property tax bill.

How to Maximize Property Tax Savings in Cobb County

To maximize your property tax savings, you must file for every exemption you qualify for. Use the Cobb County online filing system to check all applicable boxes on the homestead application form.

The following table shows the value of combining exemptions:

Who Qualifies for Primary Residence Property Tax Relief?

Homestead eligibility rests on a few core requirements related to ownership and occupancy. The rules are strict because the exemption for primary residence is a significant government benefit. Meeting all exemption qualifications is non-negotiable for approval.

The Homestead Exemption Online Filing platform requires you to attest that you meet these conditions under penalty of law. Submitting false information will result in penalties and interest on the taxes saved.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Cobb County homestead exemption, you must satisfy three main criteria as of January 1st of the tax year:

1. You must be the legal owner of the property.
2. You must occupy the property as your primary legal residence.
3. You must be a permanent resident of Georgia.

These homestead eligibility requirements ensure that the tax relief programs are reserved for true homeowners in the community. The ownership details must match the recorded deed in the county records.

Property Must Be Your Main Residence

The property must be where you live most of the time. It cannot be a secondary home, a vacation rental, or an investment property. The law requires you to demonstrate that you consider this address your official domicile.

If you own multiple homes, you can only claim the exemption on one property. This single exemption rule is central to the entire property tax exemption system.

Residency and Occupancy Requirements

Residency is proven through documentation that links you to the Cobb County address. The Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s office specifically asks for proof of residency during the online filing process. This proof shows the Assessor you meet the homestead eligibility criteria.

Acceptable documents often include a Georgia driver’s license showing the property address and vehicle registration showing taxes paid in Cobb County. These documents help establish your intent to reside permanently at the property.

One Primary Residence per Owner

State law restricts the homestead exemption to one property per household. If a married couple owns multiple homes, they must select only one for the exemption. If one spouse claims a similar exemption in a different state or county, the couple cannot claim the Cobb County homestead exemption.

The system is designed to prevent homeowners from claiming property tax savings in more than one location. This is why the online property exemption application asks about other exemptions you may be claiming elsewhere.

Required Proof and Documentation

The online exemption filing system allows you to upload digital copies of your required documents. This step is critical for a successful homestead registration. The required documentation validates the information on your homestead application form.

The necessary documents generally include proof of ownership, identification, and proof of residency. For age- or income-based exemptions, you must also provide proof of age, disability, or an income affidavit.

Common Errors That Delay or Deny Classification

Many delays in securing the homestead exemption result from simple errors on the application. A common mistake is missing the homestead filing deadline of April 1st. Another frequent error is submitting an incomplete homestead application form.

Other problems include not updating vehicle registration to the new address or failing to provide proof that a prior exemption in a different county or state has been removed. Reviewing your application carefully before the final submission through the online tax filing system is important.

How to Claim Primary Residence Status in Cobb County

The process for the Cobb County homestead registration is streamlined through the online filing system. This method is the most efficient way to submit your exemption application and supporting documentation. Following the steps precisely ensures your application is processed promptly for the current tax year.

The Cobb County online filing platform is available 24/7, though it may be down for maintenance between 3:00 AM and 6:00 AM daily. This accessibility helps homeowners meet the strict homestead filing deadline.

Gather Required Documentation

Before beginning the Homestead Exemption Online Filing, collect all necessary documents and have digital copies ready. A prepared applicant can complete the online property exemption application quickly and accurately.

Prepare the following items:

• Your recorded deed or other proof of ownership.
• Georgia driver’s license or state ID with the property address.
• Vehicle registration showing Cobb County taxes paid.
• Social Security numbers for all owners listed on the application.
• Any additional documentation for special exemptions (e.g., proof of age, disability letters, income affidavits).

Submit Property Classification Information to the Assessor

The online tax filing system guides you through entering all required personal and property information. You must accurately declare that the property is your primary residence. The system will then prompt you to upload the digital copies of your proof documents.

Submitting the application electronically is considered filing with the Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s Office. This digital submission helps you avoid issues like lost mail or postmark problems near the April 1st deadline.

Review Confirmation and Updates

After a successful online submission, the system provides a confirmation number or email receipt. Keep this confirmation for your records. This is your proof of timely submission for the exemption application.

The Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s office will review your application and documents. They may send follow-up requests if any information is unclear or missing. Respond to these requests immediately to prevent delays in securing your property tax exemption benefits.

Processing Timeline and Effective Dates

Applications received by the April 1st homestead filing deadline are processed for the current tax year. The property status date for all exemptions is January 1st. This means you must meet all eligibility requirements on that date.

If your application is approved, the tax reduction will be reflected on your property tax bill, which is typically mailed by August 15th. Applications filed after the deadline are automatically processed for the following tax year.

Documents Needed for Primary Residence Classification

Successful Homestead Exemption Online Filing relies entirely on providing the correct documentation. The goal of the required documents is to prove both ownership and permanent residency as of the January 1st status date. Having everything prepared in a digital format saves time and prevents a denied exemption application.

The Cobb County Tax Commissioner requires specific, verifiable evidence to grant the exemption for primary residence.

Proof of Ownership

The first step in homestead eligibility is proving you own the property. The county records usually show this information, but applicants should still be prepared to provide documentation.

Acceptable proof of ownership includes:

• A copy of the recorded warranty deed.
• A settlement statement (HUD-1 or Closing Disclosure).
• A copy of the property tax bill from the previous year.

If the property is held in a trust, you may need to provide specific trust pages or a Certificate of Trust to show your beneficial interest.

Proof of Occupancy

Proof of occupancy confirms that the property is your actual primary residence. This is a key requirement for any real estate tax exemption.

The Cobb County Tax Commissioner accepts the following as proof of occupancy and residency:

1. Valid Georgia Driver’s License or ID Card showing the property address.
2. Valid Georgia vehicle registration showing the property address and paid Cobb County taxes.
3. Proof of removal of any prior homestead exemption in another county or state.

The address on your driver’s license must match the property address for which you are applying for the homestead exemption.

Identification and Supporting Records

All owners applying for the exemption must provide their Social Security numbers. This is a mandatory requirement under Georgia law for the homestead application. For special exemptions, additional records are necessary.

For example, to receive the Age 62 School Tax Exemption, you must provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate or a valid ID. For disability exemptions, a doctor’s certificate and an income affidavit are required to meet the specific exemption qualifications.

Tips for a Smooth Review Process

A smooth review process for your exemption application depends on clear, complete, and accurate submission. Follow these tips when using the Cobb County online filing system:

• Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and easy to read.
• Check that the names on the application exactly match the names on the deed.
• Complete every required field on the homestead application form.
• Double-check that you have selected all special exemptions you qualify for.

These simple checks significantly increase the chance of timely approval and securing your property tax savings.

After Your Property Is Classified

Once your Homestead Exemption Online Filing is approved, the status is generally permanent. The basic exemption automatically renews each year as long as you continue to own and occupy the property as your primary residence. You do not need to reapply annually unless there is a change in ownership or eligibility.

Understanding where to look for the tax reduction and what changes might affect your status is important for long-term property tax relief.

When Tax Changes Take Effect

The property tax savings from your approved homestead exemption take effect for the tax year in which you applied. Since the deadline is April 1st, and the status date is January 1st, the reduction applies to the tax bill mailed later that year, typically in August. The payment due date for Cobb County property taxes is usually October 15th.

The exemption amount is deducted from the assessed value before the millage rate is applied. This ensures the tax reduction is calculated for the correct year.

Where to See Savings on Your Valuation Notice

Your annual Notice of Assessment, mailed by the Cobb County Board of Tax Assessors, shows how the exemption is applied. Look for the lines labeled “Assessed Value” and “Exemption Amount.” The difference between these two is your final taxable value.

The tax bill itself, sent by the Tax Commissioner, will show the final calculation and the total amount due. Verifying the exemption amount on both documents confirms your property tax exemption benefits are active.

How to Verify Classification Accuracy

You should verify that your property is correctly classified as “Homestead” or “Primary Residence” on the Assessor’s public records website. If you applied for a special exemption, such as the Age 62 exemption, confirm that this is also listed.

If the exemption is missing or the amount is incorrect, immediately contact the Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s office. Addressing these issues quickly ensures you receive the full property tax savings you are entitled to.

Can You Lose Primary Residence Status?

Yes, you can lose the homestead exemption if you no longer meet the exemption qualifications. The most common reason for losing the exemption is a change in occupancy or ownership.

If you sell the property, rent it out, or move to a new primary residence, you must notify the Tax Commissioner’s office. Claiming a homestead exemption on more than one property in Georgia or any other state will lead to the cancellation of your exemption and potential penalties.

Life Changes That Affect Eligibility

Certain life events require you to update your homestead registration status. These changes include:

• Change in Ownership: Transferring the deed to a trust or adding a new owner may require a new application.
• Renting the Home: If you move out and rent the property, it is no longer your primary residence, and the exemption is lost.
• Claiming Another Exemption: Filing for a homestead exemption in a new primary residence, even in a different state like the Florida homestead exemption, cancels your Cobb County exemption.
• Income Changes: For income-based exemptions (like the Age 65 $4,000 exemption), an increase in income above the limit will result in the loss of that specific tax reduction.

Additional Property Tax Exemptions in Cobb County

Cobb County offers a variety of additional property tax relief programs for specific groups of homeowners. These programs are designed to provide extra property tax discounts beyond the basic homestead exemption. To qualify, you must meet the general homestead eligibility requirements and the specific criteria for each program.

Applying for these exemptions often requires extra documentation, such as income statements or medical records.

Senior Property Valuation Protection

Seniors in Cobb County can qualify for significant tax reduction. The Age 62 School Tax Exemption is one of the most valuable, exempting the homeowner from all county school taxes. To qualify, you must be 62 years of age on or before January 1st of the tax year. There is no income limit for this specific exemption.

Another option, the State Senior Age 65 Exemption, provides a $4,000 reduction in certain tax categories, but it has a $10,000 annual net income limitation. This income limit excludes Social Security and retirement income.

Veterans and Disabled Veterans Exemptions

Veterans with a service-connected disability may qualify for a substantial tax exemption. The State Veteran’s Disability Exemption provides a set exemption amount in all tax categories. The amount is determined by state law and is indexed to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

To secure this exemption, you must provide a letter from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) verifying your 100% service-connected disability status. This real estate tax exemption can provide a full tax reduction on the value of the homestead.

Widow, Widower, and Disability-Based Relief

Cobb County offers a $22,000 Disability Exemption for homeowners who are disabled. This exemption applies to all tax categories except the state portion. The income limit for this exemption is a total net annual income of $12,000 or less, which includes spouse’s income but excludes disability retirement income.

Surviving spouses of certain deceased individuals, such as peace officers or firefighters killed in the line of duty, may also qualify for a full exemption on the homestead’s value. Specific documentation, like a death certificate, is required for these applications.

Applying for Multiple Exemptions Together

You can and should apply for all property tax relief programs for which you qualify. The Cobb County online filing system is designed to handle multiple exemption applications simultaneously. For example, a 65-year-old disabled veteran may qualify for the Basic Homestead, the Age 62 School Tax, the State Senior Age 65, and the Veteran’s Disability Exemption.

Each exemption application is reviewed based on its specific exemption qualifications. Submitting them together through the online exemption filing system simplifies the homestead filing process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common errors ensures your Homestead Exemption Online Filing is successful and your property tax savings are secured without delay. Mistakes often lead to the denial of the exemption application or require a time-consuming appeal process.

Paying attention to deadlines and completeness of information is critical for every homeowner seeking a property tax exemption.

Assuming Classification Is Automatic

A frequent error is believing the homestead exemption is automatically applied when you purchase a home. This is incorrect. You must file a homestead application form with the Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s office.

The exemption is not automatically transferred from the previous owner. New homeowners must complete the online tax filing process by the April 1st homestead filing deadline to receive the property tax relief for that year.

Not Updating Occupancy Changes

Failure to report a change in primary residence status is a serious mistake that can result in penalties. If you move out of the property, you must notify the Tax Commissioner that you are no longer eligible for the exemption for primary residence.

Continuing to claim the Cobb County homestead exemption after moving to a new home, such as a Florida property, constitutes fraud. The county actively reviews records to catch multiple exemptions.

Missing Review or Appeal Windows

If your homestead application is denied, you have a limited time to appeal the decision. Missing the appeal window means you waive your right to challenge the denial for that tax year. Similarly, if you disagree with the property’s valuation, you must appeal within the specified time after receiving the Notice of Assessment.

Always review all official mail from the Cobb County Tax Assessor and Tax Commissioner promptly. Note all deadlines related to the exemption application and valuation appeal.

Submitting Incomplete Information

An incomplete application is the same as a late one; it will not be processed for the current tax year. This includes forgetting to sign the homestead application form, failing to upload a required document like a driver’s license, or not providing the Social Security numbers of all owners.

The online property exemption system provides checklists and warnings to help prevent this error. Use these tools to ensure all exemption qualifications are verified with proper documentation.

Deadlines & Reviews

Adhering to strict deadlines is the single most important factor in securing your property tax exemption benefits. The Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s office operates on a precise annual schedule for the homestead registration process.

Understanding these key dates ensures your Homestead Exemption Online Filing is effective for the current tax year’s tax reduction.

January 1 – Property Status Date

January 1st is the official property status date for all exemptions. You must own and occupy the property as your primary legal residence on this date to qualify for the exemption application for that tax year. All other eligibility criteria, such as age or disability status, must also be met as of January 1st.

If you purchase a home on January 2nd, you must wait until the following tax year to file for the Cobb County homestead exemption.

Valuation Notice Review Period

The Cobb County Board of Tax Assessors mails the Annual Notice of Assessment to property owners around May. This notice contains the proposed Fair Market Value and Assessed Value of your property. This is your chance to review the valuation and ensure your homestead exemption has been applied.

You have a 45-day window from the date of the notice to file a property tax appeal if you disagree with the valuation. The dates are printed clearly on the notice.

Correction and Appeal Timelines

If you find an error in your property’s valuation or classification, you must submit a written appeal to the Board of Tax Assessors within the 45-day review period. This is a separate action from the homestead application itself.

If your exemption application was denied, the denial letter will explain the reason and provide a timeline for appealing that decision to the Board of Equalization or the Tax Commissioner’s office.

Do You Need to Reapply?

For the basic Cobb County homestead exemption, no, you do not need to reapply each year. Once approved, the basic exemption automatically renews as long as you continue to own and occupy the property. Reapplication is only necessary if there is a change in ownership, a change in occupancy, or if you want to apply for a new, higher exemption.

Special exemptions, particularly those with income limitations like the Age 65 $4,000 Exemption, may require periodic re-certification or a new income affidavit.

Contact and Location

For accurate, up-to-date information on the Homestead Exemption Online Filing and all property tax matters, contact the Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s Office directly. Their staff can provide specific help with the homestead application form, required documentation, and the online tax filing system.

Official communication is the most reliable way to address questions about homestead eligibility and property tax savings.

Cobb County Tax Commissioner’s Office – Property Tax Division

• Main Office Address: 736 Whitlock Ave, Ste. 100, Marietta, GA 30064
• Phone Number: 770-528-8600
• Email: tax@cobbtax.gov
• Official Website: cobbtax.org
• Visiting Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Cobb County Tax Commissioner also maintains satellite offices for in-person assistance, but the online exemption filing system is the recommended method for initial homestead application submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Using the online filing system makes securing your property tax exemption much easier. Homeowners need to reduce their taxable property value to see real property tax savings. This digital approach for the homestead application helps you meet critical deadlines and correct errors faster. Knowing the specific homestead eligibility requirements for your county, such as Cobb County or Florida, means you get the maximum tax reduction you deserve. This simple online process removes the confusion often found with paper forms, giving you confidence in your homestead registration.

Why should I choose Homestead Exemption Online Filing for my exemption application?

Choosing Homestead Exemption Online Filing saves time and improves accuracy for your exemption application. You submit the required documents from home, avoiding trips to a government office. The system often guides you, reducing common mistakes that cause delays. Because the submission is instant, you meet the homestead filing deadline more reliably. This faster method quickly secures your property tax savings, allowing you to benefit from the tax reduction sooner. Many counties offer this service to make the process simple for every homeowner.

What are the homestead eligibility requirements and Cobb County tax exemption deadlines?

To qualify for the Cobb County homestead exemption, you must own and occupy the property as your primary residence on January 1st of the tax year. You cannot claim an exemption anywhere else. The key homestead eligibility requirements also include having all applicants’ names on the deed. You must submit your completed homestead application by the strict April 1st deadline. This timely submission is necessary to receive the tax reduction for the current tax year. You must also provide proof of residency, like a Georgia driver’s license showing the property address.

How does the Florida homestead exemption provide property tax savings, and what is the online filing process?

The Florida homestead exemption significantly lowers your property taxes by reducing your home’s assessed value by up to $50,000. It also includes the Save Our Homes provision, which limits how much your assessed value can increase each year. To begin the online filing process, you must be a permanent Florida resident and occupy the property as your primary residence on January 1st. The application deadline is typically March 1st. You submit the exemption application through your county property appraiser’s website, providing documents like your Florida ID and voter registration card as proof of residence.

What documents are needed for online property exemption to complete the homestead application form?

To successfully complete the homestead application form and secure your online property exemption, you must gather several key items. Most jurisdictions require proof of ownership, such as a recorded deed. You will also need a valid driver’s license or state ID that matches the property address. For example, Cobb County needs a Georgia license and vehicle registration. Florida requires Social Security numbers for all owners and their spouses. Prepare digital copies of these documents before starting the online filing to ensure a smooth submission.

What happens if I miss the homestead filing deadline for my property tax exemption?

If you miss the official homestead filing deadline, you generally waive your right to the property tax exemption for that specific tax year. For example, the April 1st deadline in Cobb County means a late application will apply to the following year’s tax bill instead. Some counties may accept late applications under specific hardship conditions, but this is rare. You must contact your local tax assessor or property appraiser immediately to ask about any late filing policies. Always file as soon as possible after purchasing your primary residence to ensure you do not lose a year of valuable property tax savings.

What are the key homestead exemption benefits after using the online exemption filing system?

The primary homestead exemption benefits after using the online exemption filing system include substantial property tax savings and increased financial stability. The exemption directly reduces the taxable portion of your home’s value, lowering your annual tax bill. In Florida, it also limits future tax assessment increases, offering long-term predictability. Furthermore, in many states, this real estate tax exemption offers a degree of protection for your home equity against certain creditors. Submitting your application online provides these benefits faster and with fewer complications.