Homestead Exemptions

HOMESTEAD EXEMPTIONS

Your Path to Smart Savings!

Uncover the Power of Homestead Exemptions

What is the Homestead Exemption?

As we head into a new year, homeowners have an incredible opportunity to save on their property taxes with the Homestead Exemption. This valuable benefit helps reduce your property taxes and offers long term financial advantages.

Whether you are new to homesteading or simply refreshing your understanding, now is the time to file for this exemption before the deadline on March 1st!

How the Homestead Exemption Works in Florida

In Florida, the Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of your home by up to $25,000 on the first $50,000 of your property’s value.

This reduction applies to all property taxes, including school district taxes.

If your home’s value falls between $50,000 and $75,000, you may qualify for an additional exemption of up to $25,000 (excluding school taxes).

Save Our Homes Benefit

One of the greatest perks of homesteading is the Save Our Homes benefit.

This feature limits how much your property taxes can increase each year, ensuring you do not face steep or unexpected hikes in future assessments.

Homestead Portability: Taking Your Savings with You

Thinking about moving within Florida?

Good news! If you already have an existing homestead exemption and have lived in your current home for the last two tax years, you may be eligible to transfer your Save Our Homes benefits to your new property.

This means you can take your accumulated tax savings from your old home and apply them toward your new one.

Automatic Homestead Renewal

Even better news! Once you qualify for the Homestead Exemption, it automatically renews each year. You do not have to reapply unless there is a change in:

• Ownership
• Use of the property
• Your primary residence status

Maximize Your Savings

In addition to the standard homestead exemption, Florida offers several other exemptions that may apply to you. You may also qualify for:

• Disability Exemptions
• Senior Citizen Exemptions
• Blindness Exemptions
• Other special exemptions

Be sure to explore every available option so you can maximize your savings!

How to Apply for Homestead Exemption

Filing for the Homestead Exemption is straightforward, but you will need to provide the proper documentation to qualify. Here is a simple step by step guide:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

You will need:
• Application form(s): DR-501 and/or DR-501T
• Proof of ownership (Deed)
• Proof of permanent residence such as a Florida Driver’s License
• Social Security Number
• Additional proof of residence such as voter registration or vehicle registration

Step 2: Visit Your County Property Appraiser’s Office

The filing deadline is March 1st, so be sure to mark your calendar. You can file either:
• In person
• Online, depending on your county’s process

Step 3: Do Not Miss the Deadline!

The deadline to submit your Homestead Exemption application is fast approaching. All applications must be submitted before March 1st.

Where to Apply for Homestead Exemption

Below are the application details for several Northeast Florida counties:

• Clay County: Submit your application in person at the Property Appraiser’s office in Green Cove Springs or Orange Park. For more details, visit: www.ccpao.com

• Duval County: File online at www.jacksonville.gov/departments/property-appraiser or apply in person at:

  231 E. Forsyth Street, Suite 260, Jacksonville, FL 32202

• Flagler County: File in person at 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell, FL 32110. More information available at: https://flaglerpa.com/

• Nassau County: Submit applications online at http://ncpafl.com/ or visit offices in Yulee, Fernandina Beach, or Callahan

• St. Johns County: Apply online at https://www.sjcpa.gov/ or in person at 4030 Lewis Speedway, Suite 203, St. Augustine, FL 32084

• Putnam County: Apply online at https://pa.putnam-fl.com/exemptions

Final Thoughts

Filing for the Homestead Exemption is one of the smartest financial moves a homeowner can make. It provides:

• Immediate tax relief
• Long term savings
• Protection from rising property taxes
• Portability benefits when moving

Take the time this year to explore your eligibility and submit your application before the March 1st deadline!

Help Spread the Word

Remember to share this information with friends, family, and neighbors so everyone can benefit from these important tax savings.

Together, we can build a more financially savvy community!

Need Help? I’m Here for You!

Lynn Pace
Broker Associate, Pace² Home Group

📞 (904) 305-0751
📧 lynn@pace2homegroup.com