An important deadline for property owners is quickly approaching, and that is the deadline to apply for homestead exemption and other personal exemptions, which is March 2, 2026, for the current tax year. This deadline is typically March 1 of every year, unless it falls on a weekend, which happens this year.
The purpose of homestead exemption is to reduce the property tax burden for Florida homeowners. Homestead exemption decreases the taxable value of a Florida homeowner’s permanent residence by at least $50,000 for those who are eligible for the full benefit. The homestead exemption total changes from year to year since it is now adjusted annually for inflation, but it is always at least $50,000.
Homesteaded properties are eligible for the Save Our Homes Limitation, which limits a home’s assessed value from increasing no more than 3% per year. Another benefit of homestead exemption is the Save Our Homes Portability Transfer, which allows a property owner to transfer from one homesteaded property to another the accumulated difference between the just (market) value and assessed value, up to $500,000. The portability transfer must occur within three tax years.
To be eligible for homestead exemption, the property must be the homeowner’s permanent residence, the homeowner must have owned the property as of January 1 of the current year, and the homeowner must not be receiving any other residency-based property benefits in the United States. A property owner does not need to reapply every year for homestead exemption unless there has been a change in marital status, property ownership or title.
Besides homestead exemption, additional personal exemptions are available and include senior, widow/widower, military, first responder, veteran, disabled civilian, and more. For details about each exemption, visit www.sjcpa.gov/otherexemptions.
Homeowners can apply for homestead exemption and other personal exemptions at their convenience through our secure, online application by visiting www.sjcpa.gov/exemptions. Also, applications can be submitted in person by visiting our office.