Q: Can you give us the basic information for homestead exemption in Florida?
A: Between now and March 1, it is time for qualifying homeowners to file for homestead exemption. To qualify, you must have owned the property as of Jan. 1, 2024 and occupied it as your primary residence. Evidence of this is your Florida driver’s license with that address. You may not claim or be eligible to claim a homeowner’s tax exemption in Florida or any other state.
Q: Why is it important to apply for homestead exemption?
A: It’s important because it reduces your property’s taxable value by $50,000 — which can result in a savings of approximately $650 for the average homeowner in St. Johns County. It also sets the base for the 3 percent “Save our Homes” cap, which limits the assessed value of your home from rising more than 3 percent per year. For the past couple years, we have seen property value increases that are higher than this cap.
Q: How should a homeowner file for homestead exemption?
A: Homeowners can file in person in our office or online at www.sjcpa.gov. Presently, about 65 percent of homeowners are filing online, compared to about 10 percent just four years ago.
Q: Are there other exemptions?
A: There are many different and specific exemptions designed to provide tax relief to certain homeowners. Examples include exemptions for widow/widowers, totally and permanently disabled veterans or first responders, those who are blind or have other permanent disability, deployed service members, surviving spouses of first responders, and low income seniors. Please call our office for more information if you think any of these might apply to you.
Q: What is the most important thing to remember?
A: It is mandatory that you apply for any exemption by March 1. Even if you qualify, if you don’t apply for it — we can’t grant the exemption. Florida Statute is clear that the homeowner must apply.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Our office is located at 4030 Lewis Speedway Ste. 203, (904) 827-5500. It is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Also, readers can email me at Eddie@sjcpa.us or call me at (904) 827-5500.
