The Taxpayer Relief Act provides for property tax reduction allocations to be distributed to school districts through a "homestead or farmstead exclusion." The mission of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) is to foster opportunities for businesses to grow and for communities to succeed.To receive a homestead or farmstead exclusion, a Pennsylvania resident must submit an application to the county assessor prior to March 1. Check List – Fill out the Homestead Declaration Form completely, sign it and have it notarized. Rental properties are not eligible. President Abraham Lincoln signed the Homestead Act on May 20, 1862. Indeed, small farmers acquired more land under the Homestead Act in the 20th century than in the 19th. Teach with this document. As a property owner in Florida, homestead exemption is one way to reduce the amount of real estate taxes you pay on your residential property. You asked for a survey of homestead programs in other states. SUMMARY.