Homestead exemption exempts up to $25,000 of your home's assessed value. There is a certain period of time in which you can apply for a homestead exemption. Property taxes come due in November.
Here is a quote from my property appraisers website:
"Dear Homeowner:
As a resident of Florida, you may apply for a special property tax exemption on your homestead. Property which you use as your permanent residence, may qualify for a homestead exemption. If granted, this exemption would reduce the taxable value of your property by up to $25,000.
This exemption would provide you with a substantial savings on the taxes levied against your homestead by all taxing authorities.
Pursuant to State Law, regular filing for this exemption begins on January 1 and ends on March 1 each year.
In order to avoid long lines during the regular filing period for homestead exemption, I have implemented a program whereby you may pre-file applications beginning March 2 through December 31 for the following year.
Once granted, as long as there are no changes to your deed, your homestead exemption will be renewed automatically each year."
There is also a state constitutional amendment which limits (caps) the annual increase on the assessed value if you have a homestead exemption. It saved me some $$$$ this year as property values around here are out of control. lol
