Florida Homestead Exemption Guide | Duval, St. Johns & Clay County

 

How to Save on Property Taxes in Duval, Clay, and St. Johns Counties

If you recently purchased a home in Jacksonville, St. Johns County, or Clay County, you may qualify for the Florida Homestead Exemption. This exemption reduces your property's taxable value and can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars every year.

It also activates Florida’s Save Our Homes cap, which limits how much your assessed value can increase each year.

What Is the Florida Homestead Exemption?

The Florida Homestead Exemption is designed to help homeowners who make their property their primary residence. It offers:

  • A $25,000 exemption on the assessed value of your home.

  • An additional $25,000 exemption for the assessed value between $50,000 and $75,000. This does not apply to school taxes.

  • A cap on annual increases in assessed value, limited to no more than 3 percent per year under the Save Our Homes law.

These benefits can provide lasting savings and protect you from sharp increases in property taxes.

Who Qualifies for the Homestead Exemption?

To qualify for the Homestead Exemption, you must meet these criteria:

  • You are a legal Florida resident.

  • You own and occupy the property as your primary residence as of January 1, 2025.

  • The home is not used as a rental or vacation property.

When to Apply

The deadline to apply for the 2025 Florida Homestead Exemption is March 1, 2025.
If you purchased your home in 2024 and plan to live in it as your full-time residence, you must apply by this date to receive the exemption for 2025.

How to Apply for the Homestead Exemption in Your County

Duval County (Jacksonville)

Apply online through the Duval County Property Appraiser’s office:
Duval County Homestead Application

St. Johns County

St. Johns County also offers online filing:
St. Johns County Homestead Application

Clay County

Clay County now allows you to apply online as well.
Clay County Homestead Application

Why This Matters

Filing your Homestead Exemption is one of the most important steps you can take as a homeowner in Northeast Florida. It provides immediate property tax relief and long-term protection under the Save Our Homes law. Missing the deadline could mean paying more in property taxes than necessary.

Need Help with the Process?

I help every client understand and apply for the Homestead Exemption as part of my post-closing service. Whether you need help gathering documents or navigating the online system, I am here to guide you.

📍 Jacksonville, Florida
📧 alina@alinasells.com
📞 904-657-7481

Let’s make sure you claim every benefit you deserve.