Some Florida Homested Questions and Answers

Does a homeowner have to be a United States citizen to qualify?

It is not required to be U.S. citizen to file for a homestead exemption. Applicants who is not a U.S. citizens are required to mail, or present a copy in person, of both sides of their permanent resident alien card.

What information is needed to apply for your first homestead exemption?

A deed or tax bill in the applicant’s name.

How do I prove residency?

All owners who occupy the property must provide the following information to establish proof of residency on or before January 1. The information along with the application can be presented in person, or you can mail copies to the Property Appraiser’s office no later than the March 1 deadline:

• Social security numbers.
• Florida driver’s licenses or Florida identification cards for non-drivers.
• Florida vehicle tag number(s) on all vehicles privately owned or Manatee County voter registration cards.
• Resident Alien Card if not a US Citizen.
• Copy of the entire trust agreement, or a recorded memorandum of trust, if property is held in a trust.
• If the applicant does not possess all these items, they may call the Property Appraiser’s office for further information.

When may a homeowner apply for homestead exemption?

The legal owner of the residence should file as soon as they occupy the residence, and have the required proof of Florida residency. The homeowner has to have established permanent Florida residency on or before January 1. They must aslo apply by mail, or in person at the Property Appraiser’s office.  They should apply no later than the March 1st  deadline of the year the exemption is to begin.