Filing for a homestead exemption in Florida can lead to substantial property tax savings. The exemption is designed to reduce the taxable value of a homeowner's primary residence, ultimately lowering the overall property tax bill. Florida law provides a generous exemption of up to $50,000 for eligible homesteads.
When someone owns property and makes it his or her permanent residence or the permanent residence of his or her dependent, the property owner may be eligible to receive a homestead exemption that would decrease the property's taxable value by as much as $50,000.
Homestead Improvement Exemption In Cook County, an application must be filed with the County Assessor along with a valuation complaint. For information and to apply, contact the Cook County Assessor's Office; all other counties contact the Chief County Assessment Office.
To get a homestead deduction on your Florida taxes, you have to fill out an application form, the DR-501, and demonstrate proof of residence by March 1 of the year for which you wish to qualify.
In addition to the proof of Florida residency, you must be residing on the property as your primary residence as of January 1st. Social Security numbers are required for all owners and their spouses making application, even if the spouse does not own and/or reside on the property, per Florida Statute.
First-time Homestead Exemption applicants and persons applying for the Homestead Assessment Difference (Portability) can file online.
General Homestead Exemption (General or Homestead Exemption) The amount of exemption is the increase in the current year's equalized assessed value (EAV), above the 1977 EAV, up to a maximum of $6,000. The General Homestead Exemption is granted automatically in most cases.
Benefit: Following the Illinois Property Tax Code, this exemption lowers the equalized assessed value of the property by $8,000.
Homestead Exemption: Every person who has legal or equitable title to real property in the State of Florida and who resides thereon and in good faith makes it his or her permanent home is eligible to receive a homestead exemption of up to $50,000.