Hey homeowners, time is running out! If you haven’t applied for your Florida Homestead Exemption yet, the deadline is March 1st—less than a month away.
What is the Florida Homestead Exemption?
The Homestead Exemption is a major tax benefit for Florida homeowners, potentially reducing the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. That can mean an average savings of around $750 per year on property taxes! Plus, once you’re approved, your assessed home value increase is capped at 3% annually, protecting you from large tax hikes.
Who’s Eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- Own and occupy the home as your primary residence as of January 1, 2025
- Be a permanent Florida resident
- Be a U.S. citizen or have a Permanent Resident Card
Important Notes:
- Renting your home for more than 30 days in a calendar year may affect your eligibility.
- If you moved into a new home, your previous exemption does not automatically transfer—you must reapply.
- If your property is in a trust, additional paperwork is required.
How to Apply
Applying is easy and can be done online, by mail, or in person.
Online Application Links by County
Orlando:
- Orange County: Apply Here
- Osceola County: Apply Here
- Seminole County: Apply Here
- Lake County: Apply Here
- Volusia County: Apply Here
- Polk County: Apply Here
Tampa:
- Hillsborough County: Apply Here
- Pasco County: Apply Here
- Pinellas County: Apply Here
- Hernando County: Apply Here
Documents You’ll Need
To file for Homestead Exemption, you typically need:
- Proof of ownership (deed or property tax bill)
- Florida driver’s license or state ID
- Florida vehicle registration (at least one vehicle must be registered in Florida at your home address)
- Florida voter registration card (if applicable)
- Social Security numbers for all homeowners applying
- Permanent Resident Card (if not a U.S. citizen)
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t apply by March 1, 2025, you’ll waive your exemption for this tax year, and you’ll have to wait until next year to apply.
What About Portability?
If you had a Homestead Exemption on another Florida property within the past three years, you may be able to transfer your “Save Our Homes” tax savings to your new home. However, portability is not automatic—you must apply separately.
Don’t Wait—Apply for Homestead Exemption Today!
Time flies, and March 1st will be here before you know it. If you have any questions or need help, our team at The Nickley Group is here to guide you. Reach out anytime—we’re happy to help!
Secure your tax savings now—your wallet will thank you later!