Permanent Florida residency required on January 1. To qualify for a Homestead Exemption, you must own the property and it must be your permanent residence to the exclusion of all others as of January 1st.The spouse who holds the title of the property is responsible for applying for homestead exemption. All legal Florida residents are eligible for a Homestead Exemption on their homes, condominiums, co-op apartments, and certain mobile home lots if they qualify. By law, a homestead exemption is not transferable. If you move, your homestead exemption does not automatically follow you to your new residence. Property owners in Florida may be eligible for exemptions and additional benefits that can reduce their property tax liability. Provided either spouse qualifies for the homestead creditor exemption, the property will be afforded protection from either spouse's creditors. In Florida, property tax exemptions can be granted only if an organization meets the specified criteria under Florida law. Section 12D-7.012 - Homestead Exemptions - Joint Ownership (1) No residential unit shall be entitled to more than one homestead tax exemption.
