Property owners in Florida may be eligible for exemptions and additional benefits that can reduce their property tax liability. You are 65 years of age or older as of January 1 in the year you file for the exemption.A homestead exemption can benefit homeowners if one spouse in a twoincome household dies. You can apply for the exemption online or at the Township Assessor's office. An annual verification of eligibility must be filled out each year. Some lenders, such as Homestead Financial Mortgage, may require you to fill out form PTAX342 before closing. First-time applicants must have been the occupants of the property as of January 1 of the tax year in question. Proof of ownership of your property in the form of a copy of a tax bill or your deed. Claim a Florida homestead exemption for your Florida residence;. There are three fields to fill in: home price, down payment and mortgage interest rate.