Surviving Spouses of First Responders. A surviving spouse of a first responder who died in the line of duty may receive a total exemption on homestead property.To qualify for a homestead, you must: Own a property, Occupy the property as your sole or primary residence, Be a Minnesota resident. Permanent Florida residency required on January 1. Benefit program for people who own and occupy their home or has a qualifying resident who occupies the home called the Homestead Market Value Exclusion. This exemption requires that you file a DR501 , DR501M, and proof of qualifying deployment, which includes the dates of deployment. Who is eligible to file for homestead exemption?