Have We Got Land for You
- If you’re over twenty-one, head of the household, a citizen or going to become a citizen, and have never borne arms against the Union (sorry Confederates), congrats: you’re eligible to homestead.
- P.S. a homestead = building a (tiny) house and farming to support yourself.
- After January 1, 1863, a homestead can consist of up to 160 acres of government owned land not already claimed. Hitch up that wagon and head on out.
- There may be a preemption fee of $1.25 an acre for more than 80 acres or $2.50 an acre for 80 acres or less. Hidden fees are everywhere.
- A homestead can add land over time, if it’s next to the original claim, but it can’t be bigger than 160 acres total.