Moving to Florida
Florida Homestead Exemption
Save Thousands Every Year — Automatically
Florida's homestead exemption is one of the most powerful homeowner benefits in the country. If you live in your Florida home as your primary residence, you're entitled to a significant property tax reduction — plus long-term protection against rapid value increases through the Save Our Homes cap.
💡 How Much Can You Save?
On a home assessed at $400,000 with a 1% effective tax rate, the $50,000 exemption saves you approximately $500–$700/year immediately. Over 10 years with the Save Our Homes cap in a rising market, that compounding savings can reach $10,000–$30,000+.
🏛️ 1. Establish Florida Residency
You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence as of January 1st of the tax year you're applying for.
🏛️ 2. File Before March 1
The deadline to file for homestead exemption is March 1st of the first year you want the exemption. Miss it, and you wait another full year.
🏛️ 3. Apply Online or In Person
Most Florida counties allow online applications through the county property appraiser's website. You'll need your Florida driver's license, vehicle registration, and social security number.
🏛️ 4. Receive Your Exemption
Once approved, your property's assessed value is reduced by up to $50,000. The first $25K is exempt from all taxes; the second $25K excludes school board taxes only.
🏛️ 5. Save Our Homes Cap Activates
In the second year after your exemption is granted, the Save Our Homes cap limits annual assessed value increases to 3% or CPI — whichever is lower. In hot markets, this saves thousands.
🏛️ 6. Portability If You Move
If you sell and buy another Florida home, you can port your accrued Save Our Homes benefit (up to $500K) to your new property. This is huge for long-term homeowners.
Don't Miss the March 1st Deadline
Jason reminds every buyer to file — and walks you through exactly how to do it for your county.
Call Jason — 407-412-3174