How do I get the Homestead Exemption for my Florida property taxes?
Living in Florida can be expensive! But if you are lucky enough to own and live in a house in The Villages, you are eligible for a break on your annual property taxes. How? More paperwork, of course! But the Homestead Exemption might just be worth it as can save you thousands every year on your property taxes.






Property taxes in Florida can be high. If Florida is your permanent residence, you can apply for the Florida homestead exemption. You will need proof of home ownership, like with your deed, your Florida driver's license or voter registration card, your social security card, and possibly a few more items if you plan to be applying for the additional exemptions you are allowed to add. For example, there is an additional $5000 deduction if you are a widow or widower and have not remarried. If you are a disabled veteran or are on disability, you can get additional savings. And if you are over 65 and have an annual income of $20,000 or less, you can get an even lower property tax. You will need to apply, in person, if your home lies within Marion or Sumter counties. The Marion county office is located in Ocala at the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector office. The Sumter county office is located near Wildwood on Powell road. Finally, the Lake county homestead exemption is completed online at www.lakecopropappr.com. You need to apply by March 1st in any of the three counties. Homestead exemption will officially start the first January 1st that you permanently live in Florida. You'll be glad you applied when you get your annual property tax statement!
For MORE INFO on Florida's Homestead Exemption, go to https://floridarevenue.com/property/Documents/pt113.pdf for a one-page summary. Go to https://www.ocalafl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/18475 for more information about the additional exemptions I discussed above.