Why is the homestead exemption missing from my property tax bill?

Unlike some other states (Florida being the most frequent example we are given), there is no "homestead exemption" in Massachusetts.  The homestead document you may have filed with the Registry of Deeds does not have any effect on your real estate taxes.

Some cities and towns offer what is called the "Residential Exemption" for their residents.  These tend to be towns with a higher percentage of rental or seasonal properties, as the Residential Exemption shifts a higher percentage of the tax burden within the Residential class away from year-round owner-occupants.  Currently, Freetown does not offer the Residential Exemption.