FLORIDA HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FILING DEADLINE IS NOW!

The new law pertaining to the Florida Homestead Exemption increases the exemption $50,000. The law states that every person with legal title to a residential property, can show that this is their primary residence and does not currently have a homestead exemption, is is now entitled to and qualifies for the exemption. The key is that the applicant must be able to show that he or she is a legal Florida resident on January 1st of the the initial application year.

If you are a current resident already receiving a homestead exemption, it is not necessary to re-apply for the additional amount exempted. It will be automatically added to your current exemption. The deadline for a new filing is March 1^st of the qualifying year. Normally you can make application either in person or by mail. (Naturally mail applications for this year are too late, however, you could still fill in person.)

In order to file you will need a copy of your deed or tax receipt, as well proof of residency. That proof could could be a voter registration card, your driver’s license, vehicle registration or any other form of a permanent residency card. Information can be found on the Collier County Appraiser’s web site at: www.collierappraiser.com or you can also go to www.colliertax.com.

If you are going to transfer the exemption difference to another permanent residence within the State of Florida, you have until March 3^rd to file for that transfer.