HIGHLIGHTS
 

WHAT IS A HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION?
[Photo] Homestead Exemption is a tax reduction allowable to homeowners who make their property their permanent residence. If approved, this exemption could reduce the taxable value of your residence by up to $25,000. As a result, the homeowner would enjoy a substantial savings on the taxes levied on their property by the various taxing authorities.

Homeowners must file an initial application and as long as they remain entitled, their exemption will be automatically renewed each year and a renewal receipt will be mailed to them.

It is, however, the responsibility of the owner to notify the Property Appraiser of any change in their exemption status. Florida law requires the filing of a new application when any title change is made.

HOW TO QUALIFY
As of January 1st, you must:

[*] be a legal resident of Seminole County
[*] have recorded legal or beneficial title to the property on which you are applying
[*] be making the property your permanent legal residence

WHEN TO FILE
[*] January 1st through March 1st - Regular Filing time (For the current tax year)
[*] March 2nd through December 31st - Prefiling (For the upcoming tax year)

For the best service and so that you can avoid long lines at the regular filing time, we recommend prefiling your application.

HOW TO FILE
[*] File in person
[*] File by mail

New homeowners can expect to receive an original application with instructions on how to file. You can also call to have an application mailed to you. If you prefer, you can bring the required information to our office and we will be glad to assist you in filing. In any case, the application must be completed and submitted to our office along with the proper proof of residency information.

You may also download a blank application from the “Download” button on our main page. Please provide your name, address and Property ID number at the top where requested. Property ID can be obtained from the Record Search button.

WHAT YOU NEED TO FILE
Proof of residency information:

If you drive you must have a Florida Driver's License. The Florida Driver’s License Number of everyone (that is apply for the exemption) listed on the title must be reflect the address of the property for which you are seeking the exemption. To change your address on your Driver’s License call 1-866-467-3639 for the Florida Department of Motor Vehicle.

If you do not drive you must have one of the following:
[*] Florida Identification Card
[*] Seminole County Voter's Registration
[*] Seminole County Declaration of Domicile

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must provide your immigration number and date or bring your resident alien (green) card.

You must provide social security numbers for all applicants, their spouse or any occupant who may be entitled to the exemption.

Where to file:

Main Office: Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Seminole County Services Bldg., 1101 East First Street, Sanford Florida

 

Remember the deadline to file is March 1st!

OTHER EXEMPTIONS AVAILABLE

Senior Exemption:

          At least one owner must be 65 years of age as of January 1st in the year that
          application is made.
          Total household income must not exceed the limit imposed by law. (more..)

$500 Exemptions:

Widow's/Widower's
Must be a widow or widower. May not be divorced or remarried. Attach a copy of your late husband's/wife's death certificate.
Disability - (non-service connected)
Must be considered totally and permanently disabled. Attach physician certificates from one (1) licensed, professionally unrelated, Florida physicians.
Blind
Must be considered legally blind. Attach a copy of a letter from the Division of Blind Services. Veteran's Administration, or certificate from two (2) licensed, professionally unrelated, Florida physicians.

$5000 Exemption:

Disability - (service connected)
Must have a disability of 10% or more. Attach a letter from the Veteran's Administration.

Total Exemptions:

Disability - (non-service connected)
Must be considered totally and permanently disabled and meet income statement with proofs of income and two (2) certificates from licensed, professionally unrelated, Florida physicians.
 
Special Notes:
  • Income limitation does not apply to quadriplegics.
  • Persons other than quadriplegics, paraplegics or hemiplegics must use a wheelchair for mobility to qualify for this exemption.
Disability - (service connected)
Must be totally and permanently disabled. Attach a letter from the Veteran's Administration. Form #27-333

PLEASE NOTE: Physician certificate forms and income statements may be obtained from our office.