How to apply for Florida Homestead Exemption

Who it's for

Florida's Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable assessed value of an owner-occupied primary residence by up to $50,000. The first $25,000 is exempt from all ad-valorem property taxes (including school taxes). A second $25,000 exemption applies to the assessed value between $50,000 and $75,000 and is exempt from all property taxes except school district levies — so a homeowner whose home is assessed at $75,000 or more receives the full $50,000 reduction (with $25,000 of that not exempt from school taxes). Eligibility hinges on owning and making the home your permanent residence as of January 1 of the tax year. There is no age or income test for the base exemption. Once granted, the exemption automatically continues each year as long as the homeowner continues to occupy the home — re-application is only required if ownership or occupancy changes. The Homestead Exemption is also what unlocks the 'Save Our Homes' 3% annual assessment-increase cap, which protects long-time homeowners from large property-tax jumps when market values rise.

What you'll need

• Form DR-501 (Original Application for Homestead and Related Tax Exemptions), filed with your county Property Appraiser
• Florida driver's license or Florida ID card showing the homestead address
• Florida vehicle registration (if you own a vehicle) showing the homestead address
• Florida voter registration card showing the homestead address (or a declaration of domicile)
• Recorded deed or proof of ownership
• Social Security numbers for the applicant and spouse

Where to apply

Renewals

one-time (auto-renews while owner-occupied)