If you purchased a home in 2025 and it’s your primary residence, this is your reminder: the Florida Homestead Exemption deadline is March 1, 2026.
Missing it could mean leaving hundreds of dollars in property tax savings on the table.
Here’s what Central Florida and Tampa Bay homeowners need to know.
What Is the Florida Homestead Exemption?
The Florida Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000.
For many homeowners, that can translate to an average savings of around $750 per year on property taxes.
Even more important, once approved, your home qualifies for the Save Our Homes cap, which limits annual increases in assessed value to 3% (or the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower). That protection helps prevent large property tax increases year over year.
Who Qualifies for Homestead Exemption?
To be eligible, you must:
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Own the property
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Occupy it as your primary residence as of January 1, 2026
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Be a permanent Florida resident
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Be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident
Important Notes:
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Renting your property for more than 30 days in a calendar year may affect eligibility.
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If you purchased a new home, your previous exemption does not automatically transfer.
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If your home is held in a trust, additional documentation may be required.
What Is Portability?
If you previously had Homestead Exemption on another Florida property within the last three years, you may qualify for Portability.
Portability allows you to transfer your accumulated “Save Our Homes” tax savings to your new primary residence.
However, portability is not automatic. You must apply for it separately by March 1.
What Documents Will You Need?
Most counties require:
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Proof of ownership (deed or tax bill)
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Florida driver’s license or state ID
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Florida vehicle registration (registered to the property address)
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Florida voter registration card (if applicable)
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Social Security numbers for all owners
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Permanent Resident Card (if applicable)
How to Apply in Central Florida and Tampa Bay
Applying is typically quick and can be done online, by mail, or in person through your county’s Property Appraiser’s Office.
Orlando Area Counties:
- Orange County Homestead Exemption
- Osceola County Homestead Exemption
- Seminole County Homestead Exemption
- Lake County Homestead Exemption
- Volusia County Homestead Exemption
- Polk County Homestead Exemption
Tampa Bay Area Counties:
- Hillsborough County Homestead Exemption
- Pasco County Homestead Exemption
- Pinellas County Homestead Exemption
- Hernando County Homestead Exemption
Visit your county’s official Property Appraiser website to submit your application.
If You Miss the Deadline
If you do not apply by March 1, 2026, you waive your exemption for this tax year and will need to wait until next year to file.
There are very limited exceptions, so it’s important not to delay.
Why This Matters
The Florida Homestead Exemption is one of the simplest ways to reduce your property tax bill and protect your home’s assessed value long-term.
If you bought a home in 2025 and it’s your primary residence, filing should be at the top of your checklist.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify or need help navigating the process, our team at The Nickley Group is always happy to point you in the right direction.
March 1 will be here before you know it.