You must file the Homestead Declaration before a creditor obtains a judgment against you. The Homestead Act of 1862 enabled thousands to claim land in Montana.This act offered 160 acres of public land to US citizens. The homestead can't exceed one acre in a city or 160 acres in a rural area. A homestead exemption can benefit homeowners if one spouse in a twoincome household dies. We encourage anyone who notices that an update needs to be made to fill out the contact form on this page and let us know. Oregon, Utah and Washington. Application Period: January 1 - June 1.