If you purchased a home in 2025, you may qualify for one of Florida’s most valuable property tax benefits — the Homestead Exemption.

This constitutional tax break can reduce the assessed value of your primary residence by up to $50,000, helping homeowners save money on property taxes each year.

However, the deadline to file is quickly approaching.

Here’s everything North Florida homeowners need to know — including how and where to file.

What Is the Florida Homestead Exemption?

The Homestead Exemption is a property tax benefit available to homeowners who make their Florida property their permanent primary residence.

Benefits Include:

✔ Up to $50,000 in tax exemptions
✔ Protection against large assessment increases (Save Our Homes cap)
✔ Additional exemptions may be available for seniors, veterans, or disability status

For many homeowners, this exemption saves hundreds to thousands of dollars annually.

Who Qualifies for Homestead Exemption?

You may qualify if:

• You owned the property as of January 1, 2026
• The home is your primary residence
• You are a permanent Florida resident
• You have proof of residency (Florida driver’s license, voter registration, etc.)

2026 Homestead Filing Deadline

📅 Deadline: March 1, 2026

Missing this deadline could delay your tax savings until the following year, so it’s important to apply as soon as possible.

How to File Homestead Exemption in North Florida

Below is a helpful guide for local counties served by CB Isaac Realty.

📍 Bradford County, FL

Deadline: March 1
Office Location:
945 N Temple Ave
Starke, FL 32091

📞 Phone: (904) 966-6216

👉 Filing Notes:
• Applications can begin online
• First-time applicants may need to appear in person

📍 Clay County, FL

Deadline: March 1
Office Location:
477 Houston St
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

📞 Phone: (904) 284-6305

👉 Filing Options:
• Online application
• In-person filing available

📍 Baker County, FL

Deadline: March 1
Office Location:
32 N 5th St., Suite B
Macclenny, FL 32063

📞 Phone: (904) 259-3191

📍 Putnam County, FL

Deadline: March 1
Office Location:
312 Oak Street
Palatka, FL 32177

📞 Phone: (386) 329-0286

👉 Filing Options:
• Online through county portal
• Mail DR-501 form
• In-person filing

📍 Union County, FL

Deadline: March 1
Office Location:
55 W Main Street, Room 109
Lake Butler, FL 32054

📞 Phone: (386) 496-3711

👉 Filing Options:
• Online or in person

📍 Alachua County, FL

Deadline: March 1
Office Location:
515 N Main Street, Suite 200
Gainesville, FL 32615

📞 Phone: (352) 374-5230

👉 Filing Options:
• Online
• Mail
• Drop box
• In person

What Documents Do You Need?

Most counties require:

✔ Florida Driver’s License or ID
✔ Florida Vehicle Registration
✔ Voter Registration (if applicable)
✔ Social Security Numbers (for all owners living in home)
✔ Recorded Deed or Property Ownership Proof

Why Filing Homestead Matters

Besides tax savings, filing Homestead:

✔ Locks in long-term tax protection
✔ Helps stabilize property tax increases
✔ Increases resale appeal for future buyers
✔ Protects homeowners under Florida’s Save Our Homes law

Recently Purchased a Home? We Can Help.

Many homeowners aren’t aware of this deadline until it’s too late. If you bought a home recently, we’re happy to help guide you through the process or connect you with your county property appraiser.

At CB Isaac Realty, we don’t just help clients buy and sell homes — we help homeowners protect their investment long after closing.

Need Help or Have Questions?

📞 Call or Text: 352-475-2199
🌐 Visit: www.cbisaacrealty.com

Final Reminder

If you bought a home in 2025, don’t miss the March 1 Homestead deadline. Filing takes only a short time and can save you significant money every year you own your home.