Homestead exemption is $25,000 deducted from your assessed value before the taxes are calculated plus an additional homestead exemption up to $25,000 applied to the assessed value above $50,000. The additional exemption does not apply to school taxes.
The Additional $50,000 Homestead Exemption for Persons 65 and older (FS 196.075) reduces the assessed value of your property and can result in significant tax savings.
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.
Your Homestead will become effective on January 1st of the year FOLLOWING the year in which you ESTABLISHED your Homestead, SO LONG as you FILE for Homestead no later than March 1st of the year following the year in which you established your Homestead.