What is Florida Homestead?
A person who, on January 1st, has the legal title or beneficial title in equity to any “real” property in the state of Florida, and who in good faith makes the property his or her permanent residence, is entitled to an exemption. Once granted, you are entitled to a reduction of up to $50,000 from the assessed value of your property.
To qualify you must be a permanent resident of Florida as of January 1st of the year in which you apply for the exemption. Florida law does allow new homestead applications to be filed prior to January 1st of the year the exemption is to be effective. However, pre-filed applications will only be accepted after March 1st of each year for the following year.
Florida Statutes allow only one Homestead Exemption per “family unit.” This means that anyone applying for the Homestead Exemption in Collier County would not be legally entitled to receive the exemption if they or their spouse are receiving residency-based exemption(s) in another state.
The following documents are all required as proof of legal residence:
Most importantly: You must provide evidence of ownership (deed, tax receipt, etc.)
Other required items:
Social Security numbers for all applicants and spouses; as required by F.S. Section 196.011(1)
Collier County Voter Registration (if you vote) dated prior to January 1st
Florida Driver License dated prior to January 1st
Florida Vehicle Registration dated prior to January 1st
Optional: Declaration of Domicile filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court prior to January 1st of the year of application.
*Additional information may be necessary:
If not a U.S. citizen, a resident alien “green” card.
If your property is held in trust, a complete copy of the trust agreement.
If your residence is a mobile home, the real property decal number and a copy of the registration or title to the mobile home.
If you or your spouse benefited from a residency based exemption on an out of state property, a document from that government office stating the exemption has been removed will be required.
When and Where to File:
New applications for Homestead Exemption for the current year must be made in person prior to March 1st at the Property Appraiser’s office or at select locations during the regular homestead filing period. If you move, you must file a new application for homestead at your new residence. It does not automatically transfer.
Locations are as follows:
Main Office:
3950 Radio Rd., Naples, FL 34104
Open Mon-Fri 8-5
239-252-8141 tel
239-252-2071 fax
Orange Blossom Office:
2335 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples, FL 34109
Open Mon-Fri 9-6
239-252-4444 tel
239-252-5984 fax
Golden Gate City Office:
4715 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples, FL 34116
Open Mon-Fri 9-1, 2-6
239-348-0246 tel
239-348-3590 fax
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