The Homestead Exemption in Broward County reduces the taxable value of your primary residence, lowering the amount of property taxes you owe each year. Homeowners who qualify can save thousands over time, making this exemption one of the most valuable benefits available through the Broward County Property Appraiser.
This exemption is reserved for Florida residents who make their property their permanent home and apply with the Broward County Property Appraiser’s office. Under current law, the exemption can reduce a home’s assessed value by up to $50,000, with the first $25,000 applying to all property taxes and the second $25,000 applying to non-school taxes. In addition, the “Save Our Homes” cap limits how much the assessed value can increase each year, protecting residents from steep tax hikes. To apply, homeowners must submit proof of residency, such as a Florida driver’s license, voter registration, or vehicle registration, by the March 1st deadline. The application can be filed online through the BCPA website, by mail, or in person. For many Broward homeowners, this exemption provides lasting tax relief and safeguards the affordability of their property.
What is the Homestead Exemption in Broward County?
The homestead exemption in Broward County is a property tax benefit that lowers the taxable value of a homeowner’s primary residence. By reducing assessed value, the exemption helps residents achieve meaningful property tax savings each year.
Florida law provides a constitutional homestead protection, which secures a portion of a resident’s home value from taxation and even safeguards against certain creditors. In Broward County, the general exemption offers up to $50,000 in savings. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes, including school taxes, while the second $25,000 applies only to non-school taxes. This structure allows many homeowners to cut hundreds of dollars from their annual tax bill, with long-term savings growing over time.
How the exemption benefits Broward residents
The homestead exemption Broward County program primarily helps permanent residents who own and occupy their property as of January 1. Homeowners who qualify see reduced property tax assessments, meaning lower annual bills and more predictable housing costs. Since property values in South Florida can rise quickly, the program protects homeowners from sudden increases by capping annual assessed value growth at 3% or the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower.
For many families, these protections translate into meaningful financial relief. A homeowner living in a property assessed at $200,000 could see the taxable value reduced to $150,000, creating significant savings over the life of ownership. Retirees, first-time buyers, and long-term residents alike benefit from this program, making it one of the most valuable property tax exemptions available in Broward County.
Eligibility for Homestead Exemption
To qualify for the Broward homestead exemption, a homeowner must live in the property as their permanent residence and meet state residency requirements. The exemption only applies to owner-occupied homes, not second properties or investment rentals.
Florida law sets clear rules for who can claim this benefit. A person must be the legal property owner as of January 1 of the tax year and must show proof of Florida residency. Accepted proof includes a Florida driver’s license, voter registration, or a Florida vehicle tag. The home must serve as the applicant’s primary residence, which means they live there full-time. Properties that qualify include single-family houses, condos, townhouses, and certain mobile homes that are permanently affixed to the land.
Primary residence and Florida residency requirement
The homestead exemption Broward program is meant to help permanent residents lower their property tax bills. Owners must declare the property as their main residence and cannot use the exemption for vacation homes or seasonal rentals. Florida residency must be established before the January 1 deadline, and the Broward County Property Appraiser may request documents to confirm this.
Restrictions on second homes and rentals
A homeowner cannot apply the exemption to multiple properties at the same time. If a property is rented for more than 30 days a year for two consecutive years, it can lose its homestead status. This restriction ensures the program benefits those who truly live in their homes.
Meeting these requirements can create significant tax savings. For many residents, the exemption provides protection against rising assessments while reducing yearly property tax bills. By filing correctly and maintaining compliance, homeowners can keep these benefits for as long as the property remains their primary Florida residence.
Required Documents for Application
To file a homestead application in Broward County, homeowners must present proof of residency and identification. The documents confirm eligibility and help the Broward County Property Appraiser process the exemption quickly.
Applicants are asked to show multiple forms of identification that match the property address. The most common include a Florida driver’s license or state-issued ID card, a voter registration card if registered, and a vehicle registration. For non-U.S. citizens, valid immigration documents are required. Each applicant must also provide their Social Security number. If applying for additional exemptions—such as senior, widow/widower, disability, or veterans’ benefits—supporting paperwork must be included at the time of filing.
List of required documents for a Broward homestead application
- Florida driver’s license or state ID card showing the property address
- Voter registration card linked to the same residence (if registered)
- Vehicle registration issued in Florida
- Immigration documents for applicants who are not U.S. citizens
- Social Security numbers for all property owners applying
- Supporting documents for added exemptions:
- Senior exemption: proof of age (birth certificate, passport, or other government ID)
- Disability exemption: certification from a licensed Florida physician or Social Security Administration award letter
- Widow/Widower exemption: spouse’s death certificate
- Veterans’ exemption: proof of military service and VA disability rating
Submitting accurate and complete documents ensures the application is processed without delays. The Broward County Property Appraiser recommends that homeowners prepare these papers before applying online or in person, helping them secure their property tax savings as early as possible.
How to Apply for Homestead Exemption in Broward County
Applying for a homestead exemption in Broward County is straightforward. You can file either online through the Broward County Property Appraiser Homestead portal or in person at designated offices.
The homestead exemption Broward County program helps homeowners reduce their property taxes, making it essential to file correctly and on time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your homestead application in Broward County is processed smoothly.
Online Filing via Broward County Property Appraiser Portal
Filing online is the fastest way to submit your homestead application. The Broward County Property Appraiser portal allows you to complete the process from home.
Steps to file online:
- Visit the Broward County Property Appraiser Homestead portal.
- Create an account with your personal and property details.
- Complete the Broward County homestead application form with accurate information.
- Upload required documents such as proof of residency, Florida driver’s license, and vehicle registration.
- Review all entries and submit the application.
Online applications are processed quickly, and you can track the status of your filing through the portal. Using the online system minimizes errors commonly made in paper applications.
In-Person Filing Locations
If you prefer a face-to-face process, Broward County offers several in-person filing options. Staff can assist with questions and document verification.
Filing in person:
- Visit any Broward County Property Appraiser office.
- Bring your completed application form and supporting documents.
- Ask staff to confirm all fields are correctly filled to avoid delays.
In-person filing ensures that all documents are reviewed immediately, reducing the chance of missing information or mistakes.
Deadlines and Confirmation of Application
Timely filing is crucial. The homestead exemption Broward County deadline is typically March 1 of each year. Missing this date may delay or prevent tax savings.
Confirmation tips:
- Always request a confirmation receipt after submission.
- Online submissions generate automatic confirmation emails.
- For in-person filings, ask for a printed receipt from staff.
Keeping confirmation records helps resolve any issues if the application status is unclear later.
Common Filing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many applicants encounter minor errors that can delay approval. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Incorrect or missing personal information – Ensure your name and address match official documents.
- Failure to provide proof of residency – Submit Florida driver’s license and vehicle registration.
- Late submission – File before the March 1 deadline to secure your exemption.
- Incomplete application form – Double-check all required fields are filled accurately.
Applying for a homestead exemption in Broward County is simple when you follow these steps. By filing online or in person, meeting deadlines, and avoiding common mistakes, you can secure property tax savings with confidence.
Filing Deadlines for Homestead Exemption
The filing deadline for homestead exemption Broward County is March 1 of the tax year. Submitting an application on time ensures homeowners receive the full property tax savings without delay.
Homeowners must file their homestead exemption Broward County application by March 1. Late submissions may be accepted in limited circumstances, such as for new homeowners who purchased property after the deadline, but these exceptions are rare. Filing early is the safest way to guarantee eligibility and avoid missing out on potential savings.
Annual renewal process
Once the homestead exemption is granted, the renewal is automatic each year as long as the property continues to qualify. Homeowners do not need to reapply annually unless there is a change in ownership, residency, or additional exemptions are requested. The Broward County Property Appraiser’s office may contact homeowners if updated information is needed, ensuring records remain accurate and exemptions continue uninterrupted.
Key points to remember
- Application deadline: March 1 of the tax year
- Late filing: Limited exceptions for new owners or special cases
- Automatic renewal: Continues each year unless ownership or residency changes
Meeting the filing deadline is critical for taking full advantage of property tax reductions. Homeowners who plan ahead and submit complete applications on time can enjoy predictable annual savings through the Broward homestead exemption.
Additional Exemptions You May Qualify For
Homeowners in Broward County may qualify for additional exemptions beyond the standard homestead benefit. These include special provisions for seniors, individuals with disabilities, widows or widowers, veterans, and first responders, which can further reduce property taxes.
Senior Citizens Exemption
Seniors aged 65 and older may be eligible for an income-based exemption that provides extra savings on property taxes. Applicants must submit proof of age and income, including Social Security statements or federal tax returns. This exemption helps lower annual tax bills and supports retirees living on fixed incomes.
Disability and Widow/Widower Exemptions
Residents with a total and permanent disability can receive a full exemption on property taxes. Certification from the Social Security Administration or a licensed Florida physician is required. Similarly, widows and widowers may qualify for additional tax relief by providing a spouse’s death certificate and proof of continued residency in the property. These exemptions ensure vulnerable homeowners receive meaningful financial support.
Veterans and First Responders Benefits
Veterans with service-related disabilities, as well as first responders, can also apply for specific exemptions. Veterans exemptions depend on the percentage of disability and may cover a portion or all of the property’s assessed value. First responders may qualify for additional tax relief under certain local programs, which often require verification from the employer or official service records.
How to Apply
Applicants should complete the supplemental application forms for each specific exemption. Links and forms are available on the Broward County Property Appraiser website, making the filing process straightforward. Homeowners are encouraged to submit accurate supporting documents to avoid delays and maximize potential tax savings.
- Senior exemptions: age 65+, income verification
- Disability exemptions: certification from SSA or licensed physician
- Widow/widower exemptions: spouse’s death certificate
- Veterans exemptions: VA disability rating or military service verification
- First responders: employer or official service documentation
Claiming these additional exemptions can significantly reduce annual property taxes. By applying correctly and providing proper documentation, Broward County residents can take full advantage of all available tax-saving programs.
Portability of Homestead Exemption
Portability allows homeowners in Florida to transfer a portion of their homestead exemption savings to a new primary residence. This means residents can keep significant property tax benefits when moving within the state.
The homestead exemption portability program lets homeowners transfer up to $500,000 of accumulated assessed value benefit from one Florida property to another. To qualify, the new property must be the owner’s primary residence, and the previous homestead exemption must have been active. This feature helps families maintain predictable property tax costs even when relocating, which can be particularly valuable in areas with rising home values.
How to File for Portability
To take advantage of portability, homeowners must submit Form DR-501T, the Florida “Transfer of Homestead Assessment Difference” application. The form requires details about the old and new properties, proof of residency, and exemption history. Filing promptly ensures that the transferred benefit is applied to the new property for the current tax year.
Key points for portability:
- Maximum transfer amount: $500,000 of assessed value benefit
- Eligibility: Moving to a new primary residence within Florida
- Application form: DR-501T, submitted to the local Property Appraiser
By using portability, Broward County residents can retain substantial tax savings and avoid sudden increases in property taxes when purchasing a new home. Proper filing and timely submission of the DR-501T form ensure the exemption transfer is smooth and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
The Broward homestead exemption helps homeowners reduce their property tax bills and protect part of their home’s assessed value. Many residents have questions about eligibility, savings, and the application process, which this FAQ section answers clearly.
How much money will I save with the exemption?
Savings depend on your property’s assessed value and local tax rates. The standard exemption reduces up to $50,000 of taxable value—the first $25,000 applies to all taxes, including school taxes, and the second $25,000 applies to non-school taxes. For a home assessed at $200,000, this can save several hundred dollars annually. Combined with portability or additional exemptions, the total savings can be even higher.
Can I apply if the home is in my spouse’s name?
Yes, you may still qualify if you are a Florida resident and co-own the property. All owners must provide their identification, Social Security numbers, and proof of primary residency. If the property is solely in a spouse’s name, both names must meet residency requirements to claim the exemption.
What if I rent part of my property?
Renting out a portion of your home can affect your exemption. The property must remain your primary residence. If rental use exceeds certain limits or changes the primary residence status, the exemption could be reduced or revoked. Homeowners should report any changes to the Broward County Property Appraiser to maintain compliance.
Do I have to reapply every year?
Once granted, the homestead exemption is automatically renewed annually as long as ownership and residency qualifications are maintained. Homeowners only need to reapply if there are significant changes, such as adding additional exemptions, transferring the exemption to a new property, or changing primary residency.
What happens if I sell or move?
If you sell your home or relocate to a new primary residence in Florida, the exemption ends on the sold property. However, you can transfer a portion of your assessed value benefit to a new home using the portability program (Form DR-501T). Filing promptly ensures the exemption benefit continues and protects against sudden increases in property taxes at your new residence.