To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located. Complete a homestead declaration form.Sign your declaration in front of a notary. All homeowners automatically have a homeowner's exemption, which protects part of their equity from involuntary sales (foreclosures). To qualify for the homeowners' exemption, the home must have been the principal residence of the owner as of January 1 of that tax year. Complete form BOE-266, Claim for Homeowners'. Property Tax Exemption. The California homestead exemption is the Super Hero of the exemption world, protecting thousands of dollars in equity in a home, against some creditors. There is no charge for filing for the Homeowners' Exemption. New property owners will automatically receive an exemption application in the mail.