By Eddie Creamer
Here at our office, we take a proactive approach to helping property owners receive the property tax exemptions they qualify for and deserve. One of the primary duties of our office is to grant exemptions to eligible homeowners.
This year, we looked at different ways to reach property owners who may be eligible for a homestead exemption, and a targeted mailing was determined to be the best way to directly reach the greatest number of people. A homestead exemption reduces the property tax burden for Florida homeowners by decreasing the taxable value of a homeowner’s permanent residence by at least $50,000. This total changes yearly because it is adjusted annually for inflation. This year’s total is $51,411. The annual deadline to apply for a homestead exemption is March 1.
To be eligible for a homestead exemption, the property must be the homeowner’s primary residence and the homeowner may not receive a residency-based exemption in any other state.
In early February, a mailing was sent to property owners who met specific criteria: they purchased a home during the current portability-eligible years, their property address matched their mailing address and they did not have a homestead exemption. Homeowners who purchased a home in 2025 did not receive the mailing because they are likely planning to file for a homestead exemption this year. If they do not file this year, they will receive the mailing next year.
The purpose of the mailing was to inform homeowners about the homestead exemption and how to apply if they qualify. The mailing was sent to 3,114 residences. As of April 30, 556 homestead exemption applications have been approved and an additional 187 applications are pending due to the mailing. Based on these numbers, we received a 24% response rate, which greatly exceeds the average direct-mail response rate. We plan to continue this mailing in future years as a reminder to apply.
Visit sjcpa.gov/homesteadportability for more information about the homestead exemption. I am available to answer questions or provide additional information at eddie@sjcpa.gov or 904-827-5500.
Eddie Creamer is the St. Johns County property appraiser.
