Florida Homestead Exemption Explained
The homestead exemption lowers the taxable value of your primary residence and limits how fast its assessed value can grow. Here is how it works, and what is on the November 2026 ballot.
What it is worth today
For 2026, the homestead exemption totals $51,411 in taxable value for non-school taxes: $25,000 that applies to all property taxes, including school, plus an additional $26,411 that applies to non-school taxes only. Use the property tax calculator to estimate the dollar effect.
Who qualifies
- You must own the property and make it your permanent residence as of January 1 of the tax year.
- You apply with your county property appraiser, generally by March 1.
- Counties typically ask for proof of residency such as a Florida driver license or ID, vehicle registration, and voter registration. Check your county's requirements.
- Once approved, the exemption generally renews automatically, but you must notify the appraiser if you stop qualifying.
The Save Our Homes cap
Once you have a homestead, annual increases to its assessed value are limited to 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is less. This can leave a long-time owner's assessed value far below market value. When ownership changes, the assessed value resets to market value.
Portability
If you move to another Florida homestead, you may be able to transfer up to $500,000 of your accumulated Save Our Homes savings to the new home. Ask the property appraiser about the deadlines and rules.
Amendment 3 on the November 3, 2026 ballot
Florida voters will decide on a constitutional amendment about property taxes. It needs at least 60% approval to pass. According to county property appraiser materials, it would:
- Keep the $25,000 exemption for school taxes.
- Raise the homestead exemption for non-school taxes to up to $150,000 starting January 1, 2027, and up to $250,000 starting January 1, 2028, with inflation adjustments from 2029.
- Leave the Save Our Homes cap in place.
- Lower the annual assessment cap for non-homestead property such as second homes and rentals from 10% to 5%.
- Add residency-based timing rules for who gets the higher exemption, and limit how local governments may use property tax revenue.
Supporters say it would reduce homeowners' tax bills. Opponents, including some law enforcement and local government groups, say lower revenue could strain funding for public safety and local services. Both sides' arguments are worth reading in your own county's ballot materials.
Our property tax calculator shows your estimate under current law and under each proposed level, so you can see the numbers either way.
Other exemptions
Additional exemptions may exist for seniors, veterans, widows and widowers, and people with disabilities, with different rules and some set by counties. The property appraiser's website lists what applies where you live.