Contact the Registrar-Recorder's office where the property is located for fees and filing addresses. In Los Angeles County call (800) 201-8999, option 2.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. Complete form BOE-266, Claim for Homeowners'. Property Tax Exemption. Simply put, a homestead exemption protects your residence's equity from creditors. The homestead exemption is a tax reduction for property owners who use their property as their primary residence. The home must have been the principal residence of the owner as of January 1 of the tax year in question to qualify for the exemption.