How to File for Florida Homestead Tax Exemption
What is Homestead Exemption? How much $ Will it Really Save?
Exemptions are a form of tax relief that can reduce the taxable value of your primary residence. Homestead exemptions remove a significant portion of your home’s value from taxation, in turn lowering your taxes.
You MUST file before March 1 of the year following your purchase, but I recommend weeks earlier.
Homestead Tax Exemption is a one-time filing that not only saves you money on taxes, but limits the amount the government can tax you every year going forward (A 3% max increase per year, vs. a non-homesteaded property that can experience a 10% max increase per year). Additionally, the homestead exemption protects you and your family in the case of legal issues.
The math: The exemption removes $25,000 off the assessed value of the primary residence, and could provide up to another $25,000 in additional exemptions.
Ex: $90,000 assessed value. The first $25,000 would be fully exempt from taxes, the next $25,000 would be fully taxed, the following $25,000 would be exempt from all but school district taxes, and the final $15,000 would be fully taxed.
A Few Simple Steps to File
To begin, visit or contact your Property Appraiser’s office. Contact info is below. I recommend going in person. If you choose to file online, be sure to call the office a few days later to verify receipt and accuracy. To qualify, you must occupy the property by January 1st of the tax year that the exemption is granted.
You may qualify for additional exemptions. Contact your Appraiser’s office to find out.
Duval County: 904.630.2020
St Johns County 904.827.5500
Clay County 904.269.6305
To submit the application, you must include: your recorded deed or tax bill, FL driver’s license or ID card (with your updated address, ID# and issue date), vehicle registration (with your updated address, tag # and issue date)
You will receive a receipt by mail as proof of submission within 45 days.
Questions? I’m Always Here to Help!
Just send me a text / email for any assistance you might need — 904.504.1800 / sofiegordon@kw.com