Homestead Exemption is a tax benefit provided in Florida that reduces the assessed value of a property by $25,000 for qualified homeowners. To be eligible, applicants must be legal residents of Florida, possess title to the property, and use it as their permanent residence. The exemption also includes the “Save Our Homes” benefit, which limits increases in the property’s assessed value to 3% or the Consumer Price Index change, whichever is less.
If someone receiving the homestead exemption moves to a new residence, they need to reapply for the exemption on their new property. If they own vacant property adjacent to their homestead, they can combine them for tax purposes to extend the “Save Our Homes” protection to the additional lot(s).
There is an additional $25,000 homestead exemption available for those already receiving the standard homestead exemption. No separate application is necessary for this additional exemption, and it applies to taxable values between $50,000 and $75,000, excluding school district levies.
There is also a 10% cap on assessed value increases for non-homestead properties, such as rental properties, vacation homes, vacant land, or commercial property. This cap applies to all taxing authority millage rates except the School Board millage.
It’s important to note that providing false information to claim the homestead exemption is a misdemeanor offense punishable by imprisonment and fines.
Other exemptions include the Senior Exemption with Limited Income, Widow’s/Widower’s Exemption, Disability Exemption, and Veteran’s Disability Exemption. Each has specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.
To qualify for any exemption, including Homestead, Widow’s, Widower’s, or Disability Exemption, applicants must have legal or equitable title to the property, permanently reside there as of January 1, and provide supporting documentation such as deeds, social security numbers, and proof of residency.
Applications for exemptions can be made online or by mail between January 1 and March 1, with pre-filing available for homestead exemptions. Specific offices and contact information are provided for Charlotte County residents, but individuals outside the county should contact their respective County Property Appraiser’s office.
Abandonment of a homesteaded property due to renting it out for the entire year can result in the loss of the homestead exemption. Mobile homes permanently affixed to land can also qualify for the exemption if they meet certain requirements.
Homestead Exemption E-File:
E-FILE FOR HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION HERE
Eligibility Requirements:
To file online, you must be the owner of the property listed in your name on our website, which may take up to 4 weeks after closing.
You must be a permanent resident of Florida and live on the property as your primary residence as of January 1st.
The deadline to apply for the current year is March 1st.
Married couples must complete the application together.
If your situation falls into any of the following categories, please apply in person at our office:
– Property or part of it is held in a Trust.
– Any portion of the property is rented or leased.
– One or more owners hold a Permanent Resident Alien Card.
You will need the following documents while completing the application:
– Valid Florida Driver License or Florida ID card reflecting the property address.
– Vehicle registration (if applicable) reflecting the property address.
– Voter registration (if applicable) reflecting the property address.
Information needed for the application:
– Date of birth
– Social Security Number (including spouse’s if married)
– Property purchase date
– Date of occupancy
– Previous residence address
– Address of other owned properties
– Telephone number
– Email address
– Employment information (if applicable)
– Mailing address on last IRS tax return
If any owner is single and not filing for homestead exemption, you will need the single person’s Social Security Number.
Instructions for Filing Personal Exemptions by Mail:
Important Notice:
To qualify for an exemption, the application must be filed by March 1. Applications postmarked by March 1 will be considered timely filed. If you can’t file on time due to extenuating circumstances, you must apply in person and file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board.
Application Locations:
Charlotte County Administration Center, Third Floor, 18500 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte, FL, Telephone: 743-1593
South County Annex, 410 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda, FL
West Charlotte Annex, 6868 San Casa Drive, Englewood, FL
Please note that failure to apply by March 1 waives the exemption privilege for the year unless specified exceptions apply. Late applicants must file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board by the 25th day following the mailing of the Notice of Proposed Property Taxes.
Information to Provide When Filing by Mail:
Print your application in black ink. – Click here
Mention the tax year on the application.
Specify the type of exemption you are applying for.
If applying for homestead exemption and own vacant adjoining property, you can combine them for tax roll purposes.
Include a valid Florida Driver’s License or Florida ID card (photocopy for each applicant).
Include a photocopy of Charlotte County voter registration card or declaration of domicile.
Provide Florida vehicle license plate number(s) for all vehicles.
Include Social Security numbers for all applicants and spouses.
Provide date(s) of birth for all applicants.
Include a copy of the Deed or Tax Bill.
Complete, sign, and date the exemption application, and mail it to the Charlotte County Property Appraiser’s Office.
Address for Mailing:
Charlotte County Property Appraiser’s Office
Attn: Exemptions
18500 Murdock Circle
Port Charlotte, FL. 33948-1076
Transfer of Homestead Assessment Differential (Portability):
If eligible, complete form DR501T and submit it to the office by March 1 of the application year.
Additional Information:
Enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope to receive a signed copy of your application(s) as proof of receipt.
Send the application(s) by certified mail for delivery assurance.
Non-U.S. citizens should provide a copy of the recorded Declaration of Domicile and Resident Alien Card or apply in person.
If not residing in Charlotte County, contact the Property Appraiser in your permanent residence county.
For any questions, contact the Charlotte County Property Appraiser’s Office at [email protected] or (941) 743-1593.