Benefits · Tax Relief
How to apply for Florida Combat-Disabled Veteran Age 65+ Property Tax Discount
Local county property appraiser (statewide discount under Florida Statute 196.082, overseen by the Florida Department of Revenue)
Who it's for
Florida gives veterans age 65 and older a discount on the property tax bill for their homestead when they have a permanent, combat-related, service-connected disability and were honorably discharged. The discount percentage equals the VA disability rating — a 70% rating means 70% off the ad valorem taxes on the home. This is one of the largest senior-specific veteran benefits in Florida. If the veteran dies, the discount carries over to a surviving spouse who keeps the home and does not remarry. Apply with the county property appraiser by March 1 using Form DR-501DV, the VA letter showing the percentage and the combat-related finding, proof of honorable discharge, and proof of age.
The disability must be permanent, service-connected, AND combat-related — the VA letter has to confirm the combat-related part, which a standard rating alone does not show. The discount equals the rating percentage, so the dollar savings depend on the rating and the home's tax bill. A surviving spouse keeps the discount while holding the homestead and unremarried, and can transfer a fixed dollar amount to a new residence after a sale. Application can be filed before the VA paperwork arrives, with retroactive refunds limited to 4 years.
What you'll need
- Official VA letter stating the disability percentage and confirming the disability is combat-related
- Copy of the honorable discharge (DD-214)
- Proof of age as of January 1
- Form DR-501DV filed with the county property appraiser by March 1
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
Renewals
one-time application; the property appraiser may periodically re-verify
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.