Are you ready to file for a Homestead Exemption? March 1 is the deadline for timely file for the 2018 Homestead Exemption, those who are eligible for the exemption can late file up until the first week of September.
If you are a legal Florida resident and own and moved into your Duval County home after January 1, 2017, and the property is your permanent home (or the permanent home a legal dependent), you can file for a 2018 Homestead Exemption.
What types of properties are eligible for a Homestead Exemption?
Homes, condos, co-op apartments, and some mobile home lots are all eligible for a Homestead Exemption.
What does a Homestead Exemption do?
A Homestead Exemption will remove $25,000 off of the assessed value of a residence that is owner-occupied. There is also an opportunity for up to another $25,000 exemption off of assessed value over $50,000 (not eligible on school taxes). The result is a lower value on which to pay taxes, as well as attaining the "Save Our Homes" benefit, which will limit future annual increases in the assessed value to 3% or less.
When does the Homestead Exemption expire?
As long as there have been no changes to property ownership or use, the Property Appraiser will automatically renew the exemption. You will be mailed a renewal card each January, which identifies the property and the owner who possesses the exemption.
If the home sells, changes use, or changes owners, the exemption will be removed or altered. Once a home has sold, the assessed value will increase back to the market value and the new owner will need to reapply for the exemption.
Ready to Apply?
You can apply online here, or you can download a manual application here. Manual applications, along with supplemental documents can be dropped off in person or mailed to Customer Service/Exemptions Division at 231 E. Forsyth Street, Suite 260, Jacksonville, FL 32202. You can also send the application and documents by fax: 904.630.2525 or email: pacustserv@coj.net.
Sources:
COJ Property Appraiser
