What Is A Homestead Exemption?

Homestead exemption is a constitutional benefit that reduces the assessed value of residential property $25,000 for qualified permanent Florida residents. In other words, the exemption allows homeowners to avoid taxes on the first $25,000 of the assessed value of their home. For example, if a home is assessed for tax purposes at $150,000, the homeowner will be taxed on only $125,000. As a result, you enjoy substantial savings on your tax bill.
The deadline to apply is March 1 of every year. Generally, initial application for property tax exemption must be made between January 1 and March 1 of the year for which the exemption is sought. If you purchased a home after March 1, then your exemption will not be in effect until the next tax year. Florida law requires that application be made by March 1 to be eligible for the $25,000 Homestead Exemption. Only new applicants or those who had a change in residency need to apply. Automatic renewals are mailed in January each year.  

Who Is Eligible For Homestead Exemption? 

Florida's Homestead Exemption applies to every person who has legal or equitable title to real property in the State of Florida, who resides in the property on January 1 and makes it his or her permanent residence.
Homeowners who rent their home do not qualify for Homestead Exemption. Neither does vacation nor second homes. Renting of one's primary residence constitutes abandonment of Homestead Exemption.
Mobile home owners may receive Homestead Exemption if they own the land on which it is situated and the mobile home is permanently affixed to the land.
Homestead exemptions are not automatically transferred from one residence to a new home. To receive an exemption on a new home purchase, one must reapply by March 1.
One will receive the benefit of the previous owners' exemption for the remainder of that year when purchasing a new home. However, to continue the exemption, one must reapply before March 1 of the next year to qualify. 

Information Needed To File For Homestead Exemption. 

Who Must File For Homestead? 

Those individuals whose names appear on the deed and who reside in the property must file. Homeowners must apply in person. If title is held by husband or wife alone, a wife may file for him, with his consent, and vice-versa. If the property is held by "tenancies by the entireties" (husband and wife together), only one person is required to file.  

Where To File For Homestead Exemption. 

The most convenient locations for Pembroke Pines, Cooper City and Davie homeowners are the following: 

Pembroke Pines
Pines Conference Center
10221 Taft Street
#954-437-2670 

Hollywood
Broward County Courthouse
3550 Hollywood Blvd.
#954-831-0470 

Plantation
100 N. Pine Island Rd.
#831-2363