Homestead Exemption
New 2008 property tax Reforms:
In a January 2008 ballot measure, Florida voters approved a constitutional
amendment that introduced several changes to our state's property tax system.
The four changes may affect the amount of tax you owe:
Increased Homestead Exemption: If you're currently
receiving a $25,000 homestead exemption on your property taxes,
you will automatically be upgraded to a $50,000 exemption this
year. If you are a homeowner and do not currently receive the exemption,
you may file your application in person along with a $15 late fee,
through mid-September.
Save Our Homes Portability Cap: You may now trasfer
up to $500,000 of your property tax cap to a new home when you
move. To take advantage of this benefit, you must file a Homestead
Exemption and Portability Application.
Tangible Personal Property Tax Exemption: If you're required to file a Tangible
Personal Property Tax Return, you're entitled to a $25,000 exemption on business
equipment.
Non-Homestead Cap: Beginning next year, those properties not eligible for a homestead
exemption may apply to receive a 10% cap on property tax increases.
Homestead Exemption Overview:
FILING PERIOD JANUARY 1 – MARCH 1
Florida law requires that application be made by March 1st to be eligible
for the $25,000 Homestead Exemption. Only new applicants or those who had
a change of residence need apply. Automatic renewals are mailed in January
each year.
In Florida, $25,000 of the assessed
value of your home is exempt from real estate taxes, but you have to
meet certain criteria to be eligible for the exemption. First you much
have the title or record to your property as of January 1, and reside
on the property. You have to be a legal and permanent resident of Florida
as of January 1. When applying for the exemption status, bring along
a copy of your deed or tax bill, and a Florida county voters registration
or Declaration of Domicile. If you drive, you must also bring your Florida
driver's license and automobile registration. New applications must be
submitted in person at the appraiser's office, but renewals may be done
by mail. For further information, consult the County Property Appraiser's
Office.
Real Estate Taxes
All residents are subject to county taxes, but each
city or special district levies taxes within its boundaries.
City, special-district, and county taxes are combined in
one tax bill. Real estate taxes are assessed as of January
1 each year. They are due and payable on November 1 and become
delinquent if not paid before April 1 of the following year.
Florida law holds the taxpayer responsible for receiving
and paying tax bills in full. For additional information
contact the County Property Appraiser's Office.
Establishing Residency
To establish residency, you may register
to vote or file a Declaration of Domicile, which
is an affidavit available at the CountyCourthouse.
Filing one copy with the Circuit Court provides a
record of your intention to make Florida your home.
Simply moving to the State does not guarantee legal
residency. For more information contact the County's
Clerk of Circuit Court.
What is Homestead Exemption?
Florida Law entitles every person, who has legal or equitable title
to real estate and maintains it as his/her permanent residence, to apply
for a $25,000 homestead property tax exemption. A partial exemption may apply
if the ownership of the applicant is less than 100%.
Am I eligible to file?
You must meet the following requirements as of January 1st:
Have legal or beneficial title to the property, recorded
in the Official Records of County
Residency on the property
Be a permanent resident of the State of Florida
Be a United States citizen or possess a Permanent Residence Card (green card)
When do I file?
The deadline to file an application for exemption is March 1st.
Under Florida law, failure to file for any exemption by March 1st constitutes
a waiver of the exemption privilege for the year.
Regular filing is January 2nd - March 1st.
Pre-filing for the coming year is March 2nd - December 31st.
How do I file?
Take copies of the required documentation to your Exemption Department:Generally
at the County or City Court House
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