Final answer:
To qualify for the homestead tax exemption, a person usually must file for the exemption just once and meet certain state-specific residency requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to qualify for the homestead tax exemption, a person must generally file for the exemption only once. This initial application is typically a declaration of the homeowner's intent to use the property as their primary residence.
However, some states may have specific residency requirements, such as living in the house for at least 6 months of the year, or the entire year, to maintain the exemption status. It's important to check the laws of the particular state in which the property is located, as they can differ significantly.