Q: How are homestead exemption totals and assessment caps determined each year?
A: Every January, the Florida Department of Revenue notifies our office of the tax year’s homestead exemption total, assessment limitation cap and income limitations for other personal exemptions. These totals are adjusted annually based on the change in the consumer price index (CPI) for homestead exemption or the cost-of-living index (COLI) for other personal exemptions.
Q: What are the current benefit totals for homesteaded properties in 2026?
A: Homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of a primary residence and limits the annual increase of a property’s assessed value to no more than 3% or the change in the CPI, whichever is less. This year, the full homestead exemption total is $51,411, and the assessment limitation cap is 2.7%. These updated figures are now reflected on property record cards at www.sjcpa.gov.
Q: What are the requirements for the senior and disability exemptions this year?
A: The senior exemption can reduce taxable value by up to an additional $50,000 for homesteaded owners 65 or older with a total household adjusted income below $38,686. Residents who have lived in their home for 25-plus years with a market value under $250,000 may qualify for additional benefits. For the total and permanent civilian disability exemption, which totally exempts the owner from property taxes, the household income limit is $37,712.
Q: How and when should residents apply for these exemptions?
A: The deadline to apply for 2026 exemptions is March 2. Property owners can apply online at www.sjcpa.gov/exemptions or visit our office at 4030 Lewis Speedway, Suite 203, in St. Augustine. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Our office is located at 4030 Lewis Speedway, Suite 203, and the phone number is 904-827-5500. We are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Readers can also email me directly at Eddie@sjcpa.us or call the office for assistance.
