In a bold move to combat housing insecurity and support long-time residents, the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta have officially launched a new anti-displacement initiative aimed at providing critical property tax relief for senior homeowners at risk of being priced out of their homes.
Backed by $10 million from the Centennial Yards Housing Trust Fund, this initiative is specifically designed for "legacy residents"—eligible senior homeowners who have lived in the city since at least 2015 and are facing rising property taxes due to rapid development and escalating home values.
How the Program Works
For qualified participants, the program will cover any property tax increases above a homeowner’s base tax level for up to 20 years, so long as the homeowner remains eligible. The assistance will help shield seniors on fixed incomes from displacement while allowing them to age in place in neighborhoods they have long called home.
The application window for the 2025 program year is open from May 1 to May 31, 2025.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the anti-displacement tax relief program, applicants must:
- Be a City of Atlanta homeowner continuously since 2015
- Be 60 years of age or older
- Have proof of homeownership
- Have a household income at or below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI)
- Be actively enrolled in a qualifying homestead exemption program (apply here)
- Have no negative encumbrances (such as tax liens or legal claims) on the property
In-Person Application Support Available
To ensure that eligible residents can access the program, several community-based organizations are offering free, in-person assistance with the application process:
Meals on Wheels Atlanta1705 Commerce Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30318(404) 351-3889 | ✉️ info@mowatl.orgWednesday & Thursday, 10 AM – 1 PM
Rebuilding Together Atlanta3060 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30305(404) 505-5599 | ✉️ taxrelief@rebuildingtogether-atlanta.orgCall or email to schedule an appointment
The Nehemiah Project51 Senoia Rd, Fairburn, GA 30213(470) 334-0873Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM
A Lifeline for Longtime Residents
City leaders say the program is part of a larger strategy to preserve community stability amid ongoing redevelopment and economic growth.
“This initiative is not just about tax relief—it’s about preserving the fabric of our neighborhoods,” said a city spokesperson. “We are investing in our people by making sure longtime residents, especially our seniors, can stay in the homes and communities they helped build.”
With Atlanta’s housing market showing no signs of slowing down, programs like this are expected to play a key role in protecting vulnerable homeowners from the pressures of gentrification and property tax inflation.
For more information and to apply, visit Invest Atlanta’s website or connect with one of the listed community partners.