If you own a home in Florida and use it as your primary residence, you may qualify for a valuable tax break! The Homestead Exemption can help lower your property tax bill and protect you from large annual increases. However, you must apply before the March 1, 2025 deadline to receive the benefit for this tax year.
Keep reading to find out how Homestead Exemption works, who qualifies, and how to apply before the deadline.
What is Homestead Exemption?
Homestead Exemption is a property tax benefit that reduces the taxable value of your home, helping homeowners save up to $750 per year on property taxes.
✅ Up to $50,000 exemption on your home’s assessed value
✅ Save Our Homes Cap – Limits annual assessed value increases to 3% per year
✅ Must be your primary residence as of January 1
Example Savings:
If your home is valued at $300,000, a $50,000 exemption means you are only taxed on $250,000 of value, leading to significant savings.
Who Qualifies for Homestead Exemption?
To qualify, you must meet these requirements as of January 1, 2025:
✔ You own and reside in the home as your primary residence
✔ You are a Florida resident
✔ You are a U.S. citizen or have a Green Card
Important: If you recently purchased a home, you must file for your own exemption. The previous owner’s exemption does not transfer to you.
How to Apply for Homestead Exemption
You can apply in three ways:
1️⃣ Online – Visit your county’s Property Appraiser website:
2️⃣ By Mail – Submit a completed application with required documents.
3️⃣ In Person – Visit your local Property Appraiser’s Office.
Required Documents:
- Florida Driver’s License or ID with your property address
- Florida Vehicle Registration or Voter Registration
- Social Security numbers for all applicants
Key Deadlines to Remember
March 1, 2025 – Final deadline to file for the exemption
⚠️ Miss the deadline? You’ll have to wait until 2026 to apply.
Recently moved? If you purchased a new home, you must file for a new Homestead Exemption—it does not transfer automatically.
What is Portability? (Transferring Your Tax Savings)
If you sold a home in Florida within the past 3 years, you may be eligible for Portability, which allows you to transfer your tax savings from your previous home to your new one.
You must apply for Portability separately when filing your new Homestead Exemption.
Check with Your Local County Property Appraiser
Each Florida county may have slightly different requirements for Homestead Exemption. Be sure to visit your local Property Appraiser’s Office website for the most up-to-date information.
Need help? Contact us, and the team will guide you in the right direction!
Final Thoughts
Homestead Exemption is a simple but powerful way to save money on property taxes. If you own a home and live in it as your primary residence, make sure you apply before March 1, 2025, to lock in your savings for the year.
Have questions? Contact us today, and let’s make sure you’re getting all the benefits you qualify for!
Posted by Jeffrey G. Funk P.A. on
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