Citrus County Homestead Exemption for Florida Homeowners

If you own and live in your home as your primary residence, the Citrus County homestead exemption can lower your property taxes. However, many homeowners miss out each year. Most assume the exemption is automatic or believe they can file later.

Unfortunately, neither is true.

Because deadlines matter, it’s important to understand how the Citrus County homestead exemption works and how to file correctly.

What is the Citrus County homestead exemption?

First, let’s cover the basics.

The Citrus County homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. As a result, most homeowners see a lower annual property tax bill.

In addition to tax savings, homestead status may also:

• Limit how much your assessed value can increase each year through Florida’s Save Our Homes cap

• Offer certain creditor protections under Florida law

However, the exemption applies only to your primary, permanent residence.

Who qualifies for the Citrus County homestead exemption?

Next, eligibility.

In general, you may qualify if:

• You own the property

• The home is your primary residence

• You lived in the home as of January 1 of the tax year

• You can show Florida residency

If you purchased a home after January 1, you will usually apply for the exemption the following year.

What documents do homeowners need?

Before you file, gather your documents. Doing this early makes the process easier.

Most homeowners are asked to provide:

• A Florida driver’s license or Florida ID

• Florida vehicle registration, if applicable

• Voter registration, if applicable

• Social Security number for the applicant and spouse, if filing jointly

Depending on your situation, the Property Appraiser may request additional information.

Citrus County homestead exemption filing deadlines

Now, let’s talk about timing.

The homestead exemption is based on your residency status as of January 1. Because of this, deadlines are strict.

• The standard filing deadline is March 1

• Missing the deadline usually means losing the exemption for that year

While late filing may be allowed in limited cases, it is best not to rely on it. Filing early is the safest option.

Where to file for the Citrus County homestead exemption

At this point, many homeowners ask where to file.

Applications are handled by the Citrus County Property Appraiser. They are not handled by your lender or the tax collector.

Homeowners may file:

• Online through the Property Appraiser’s website

• In person at the Property Appraiser’s office

Even if your closing went smoothly, filing for homestead is still your responsibility.

Common mistakes homeowners should avoid

Even qualified homeowners can run into problems. For example, many people:

• Assume the exemption transfers from a previous home

• Believe their lender filed it for them

• Wait until the last minute to gather documents

• File for a property that is not their primary residence

Avoiding these mistakes can save you money year after year.

A quick tip for buyers

Finally, if you are buying a home in Citrus County and plan to live in it full time, plan ahead. Filing for the Citrus County homestead exemption on time can significantly reduce your property tax bill and help protect your investment.

Need help determining eligibility?

If you are unsure whether you qualify, recently moved, or want to confirm you are filing with the correct county office, feel free to reach out. I am happy to point you in the right direction and help you avoid missing important deadlines.

Thank you so much
Diana Dodd
ERA American Suncoast Realty
731-363-5833