Homestead Exemption
A homestead exemption is a legal provision that helps reduce the amount of property taxes you owe on your primary residence. By applying for this exemption, you can often lower the taxable value of your home, which in turn decreases your property tax bill. The specifics of homestead exemptions can vary depending on the state or country where you live.
In addition to reducing property taxes, some jurisdictions also offer homestead exemptions to protect a portion of your home’s value from creditors in case of bankruptcy, which can offer some financial protection.
To qualify for a homestead exemption, you typically need to meet certain requirements, such as owning and residing in the property as your primary residence. There may also be application deadlines and specific forms you need to complete.
In Florida, the homestead exemption can provide significant property tax relief for eligible homeowners. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file for a homestead exemption in Florida:
- Check Eligibility: To qualify, you must:
- Own and occupy the property as your primary residence as of January 1 of the year you are applying for.
- Be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien.
- Not claim a homestead exemption on any other property.
- Gather Documentation: You’ll need to provide:
- Proof of ownership (such as a deed or tax bill).
- A Florida driver’s license or ID card with the address of the homestead property.
- A Florida vehicle registration with the address of the homestead property.
- Your Social Security number or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
- Complete the Application:
- Obtain the homestead exemption application form from your county property appraiser’s office or their website. You can also apply online through the property appraiser’s website in many counties.
- Fill out the form with the required information.
- Submit the Application:
- Submit the completed application form along with the required documentation to your county property appraiser’s office. Be mindful of the filing deadline, which is usually March 1st of the year for which you are seeking the exemption.
- Some counties may offer online submission, while others might require you to submit your application in person or by mail.
- Await Confirmation: The property appraiser’s office will review your application and may request additional information if necessary. You’ll receive a notice once your application is processed and your exemption is approved.
- Review and Appeal: If your application is denied or if you disagree with the assessment, you can appeal the decision. Instructions for the appeals process will be included with the notice of denial or assessment.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s best to contact your local county property appraiser’s office or visit their official website.
- Duval County
In person at: 231 E. Forsyth Street, Suite 260 Jacksonville, Florida 32202
By Fax/Email: 904-630-2525 or pacustserv@coj.net
Online: https://homestead.coj.net/WebForm1.aspx
You will receive a receipt by mail as proof that your exemption application was received and processed within 45 days of filing.
- St. Johns County
In person at: 4030 Lewis Speedway, Suite 203 Saint Augustine, FL 32084
- Nassau County
In person at any of these 3 locations: https://www.nassauflpa.com/About-Us/Locations
- Clay County
In person at either of these 2 locations: https://ccpao.com/our-office/locations
By mail: Call 904-284-6305 to discuss what you need to mail in (application with wet signature, copy of your driver’s license with the property listed as your current residence, electric bill, etc.)
