SAVE MONEY – It’s Time to FILE for HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION!

*Below is an excerpt from: https://okaloosapa.com/real-property/#Homestead

WHEN TO FILE: Section 196.011, F.S.
An application for ALL exemptions must be filed, on or before March 1 of each year. Failure to make application, when required, shall constitute a waiver of the exemption privilege for that year. However, any applicant who fails to file an application by March 1 may file a late-filed application. Applicants must provide a written explanation of the extenuating circumstances as to why they were unable to apply by the deadline. Applications are taken on a walk-in only basis.

HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION up to $50,000: Section 196.031, F.S.

All applicants must file an application in-office or online for homestead exemption.

A person who, on January 1, has legal title or beneficial title in equity to real property in the State of Florida and who in good faith makes the property his or her permanent residence is eligible. The deed or instrument granting ownership to the property must be recorded in the official records of Okaloosa County. Property owners must apply for the Homestead and other selected tax exemptions in person.

Once the deed or contract has been recorded with the Clerk of Court, the following documentation is required, along with the in-office Homestead application:

• Proof of social security numbers for all owners, e.g. social security card, W-2, tax return
• Valid Florida Driver’s License or Florida Identification Card with updated address
• All current State of Florida Vehicle Registrations with updated address

If you have no vehicles registered in the state of Florida, a Voter Registration Card or Declaration of Domicile can be used as proof of residency.

In addition to the information above, be prepared to answer and provide proof for the following:

• What is the physical address of the property?
• Did you have legal or beneficial title to the property on January 1?
• What date did you begin to claim the property as your primary residence?
• Do you have a valid Florida Driver’s License or Florida Identification Card and an additional proof of residency with the property address?
• What is your Citizenship status? Are you a US Citizen? If you are not a US Citizen, please provide a copy of your Permanent Resident Card.
• What is your social security number? What is your spouse’s social security number?
• Did you have a homestead exemption, in the State of Florida, anytime during the 3 previous tax years?

>>> USE THIS CHECKLIST: HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION CHECKLIST!!! <<<

Questions?  Please see https://okaloosapa.com/real-property/#Homestead