Complete a homestead declaration form. Download PDF BOE-266 REV.To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located. Despite the confusing title, it's simple to understand what a homestead declaration is and what it can do for you. Complete form BOE-266, Claim for Homeowners'. Property Tax Exemption. The new law eliminates many qualifying conditions and provides a homestead exemption to anyone with a principal residence. However, the automatic exemption only protects the homeowner's equity in the property under a forced sale due to the request of a creditor. The Homestead Declaration must be recorded with the County Recorder to be valid. Buy a declared homestead form from an office-supply store, or download a form from the Registrar-Recorder's website.