How do I file a declared homestead? To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located.The Homestead Declaration must be recorded with the County Recorder to be valid. After completing the form, you must file it with the County Recorder's office in the county where the property is located. RESOURCES. Cal. A Declaration of Homestead must be completed, signed, and notarized, in order to be recorded in the Clerk-Recorder's Office. A Declaration of Homestead must be completed, signed, and notarized, in order to be recorded in the Clerk-Recorder's Office. Before you use this form, fill in all blanks, and make whatever changes are appropriate and necessary to your particular transaction. Consult a lawyer if. A homestead exemption is automatic in California and only protects against forced sales. Complete form BOE-266, Claim for Homeowners'.