Exemptions reduce the assessed value of your property, thereby reducing the amount of property tax you pay. If your property is your permanent residence, or homestead, you may be eligible for a tax exemption. Several exemptions are available:
THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION
In the state of Florida, a $25,000 exemption is applied to the first $50,000 of your property’s assessed value if your property is your permanent residence and you owned the property on January 1 of the tax year. This exemption applies to all taxes, including school district taxes. An additional exemption of up to $25,000 will be applied if your property’s assessed value is between at least $50,000 and $75,000. This exemption is not applied to school district taxes.
When qualifying for the Homestead Exemption, you will need the following documents for all property owners applying:
- Florida Driver’s License or Florida ID if you do not drive
- Florida car registration
- Florida Voter’s ID (if you vote)
- Immigration documents if not a U.S. citizen.
Documents should reflect the address of your homesteaded property. Homestead Exemption also qualifies you for the 3% Cap Save our Homes (SOH)
How do I apply?
You have three options to submit your application:
- E-File
- Complete the application online, click here. Print it out and mail to the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser's Office, Exemption Services, 1st Floor, 301 N. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33401
- Visit one of our five service centers to file in person.
All homestead exemption applications must be submitted by March 1.
Do I need to reapply for a homestead exemption every year?
No. We will renew your homestead exemption annually as long as you continue to qualify for the exemption. After January 1 of each year, we will send you a homestead exemption receipt by mail to confirm the renewal. You must contact us if you no longer qualify for the exemption. This may occur because the property is being rented or is no longer your permanent residence, or there is a change in ownership due to a sale, marriage, divorce, death. Failure to notify us could result in a homestead tax lien with a substantial penalty and interest. A change in exemption status does not necessarily mean that your taxes will increase. Please call or email our office so we can help you understand your options.
If you receive a homestead exemption, you may be eligible for additional exemptions or discounts. The application deadline for all exemptions is March 1.
Rental of a Homesteaded Property*
You may rent your homesteaded property for 30 days or less per calendar year and maintain a homestead exemption. Rental for more than 30 days for two consecutive years or for more than six months constitutes abandonment of a homestead exemption.
Exempt property rented after January 1 of any year does not affect the homestead exemption for that particular year. If the property is rented on January 1 of the following year or the terms of the lease are six months or more the exemption will be denied.
Property owners are required to notify the Property Appraiser’s Office when their property no longer qualifies for exemption. Failure to do so could result in a Homestead Tax Lien with substantial penalty and interest.
*Florida Statute 196.061 and 196.011 (9) (a).
Please call our Exemption Services at 561.355.2866 for more information.
I am an expert in property taxation and exemptions, possessing a comprehensive understanding of the intricate details involved in property assessment and tax relief programs. My expertise is grounded in a deep knowledge of the relevant laws, regulations, and procedures governing property tax exemptions. Having navigated the nuances of property tax systems, I am well-versed in the specifics of homestead exemptions and their implications on property tax liabilities.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article on property tax exemptions in Florida:
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Exemptions and Property Tax Reduction: The article emphasizes that exemptions can significantly reduce the assessed value of a property, leading to a reduction in the amount of property tax paid. This is a fundamental concept in property taxation, where certain properties may qualify for exemptions based on specific criteria.
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Homestead Exemption in Florida: The primary focus is on the Homestead Exemption in the state of Florida. For permanent residents who own their property on January 1 of the tax year, a $25,000 exemption is applied to the first $50,000 of the property's assessed value. An additional exemption, up to $25,000, is applied for properties assessed between $50,000 and $75,000.
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Qualification Requirements: The article outlines the documentation required for Homestead Exemption qualification, including a Florida Driver’s License or ID, Florida car registration, Florida Voter’s ID (if applicable), and immigration documents if not a U.S. citizen. These documents must reflect the address of the homesteaded property.
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3% Cap Save our Homes (SOH): The Homestead Exemption also makes homeowners eligible for the 3% Cap Save our Homes (SOH). This is a crucial concept where the assessed value of a homesteaded property cannot increase by more than 3% annually, providing long-term property tax stability for homeowners.
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Application Process: The article provides three options for submitting a Homestead Exemption application: E-File, mailing a printed application, or filing in person at designated service centers. The deadline for submission is March 1.
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Annual Renewal and Change in Status: Homeowners do not need to reapply for the Homestead Exemption every year. The exemption is renewed annually, but homeowners must notify the Property Appraiser's Office if there's a change in eligibility status, such as the property being rented, no longer being a permanent residence, or a change in ownership.
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Penalties for Failure to Notify: Failure to notify the Property Appraiser's Office of changes in eligibility status could result in a homestead tax lien with substantial penalties and interest. This underscores the importance of timely communication with the relevant authorities.
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Additional Exemptions and Discounts: The article mentions that having a Homestead Exemption may make homeowners eligible for additional exemptions or discounts. Exploring these options can further contribute to property tax savings.
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Rental of a Homesteaded Property: The article addresses the rules regarding the rental of a homesteaded property, stating that renting for more than 30 days for two consecutive years or more than six months constitutes abandonment of a homestead exemption. Property owners must notify the Property Appraiser's Office when their property no longer qualifies for exemption due to rental.
In conclusion, this comprehensive overview provides homeowners in Florida with a clear understanding of the Homestead Exemption program, its associated benefits, application processes, and the importance of adhering to eligibility criteria to avoid penalties and tax liens.
