Homestead Exemption Online Filing

The Nassau County Homestead Exemption Online Filing system makes it easier for homeowners to apply for valuable property tax savings without visiting the office in person. The Homestead Exemption is a key benefit provided under Florida law that reduces the taxable value of your primary residence, lowering annual property taxes while offering financial stability. It also includes protection through the Save Our Homes (SOH) cap, which limits annual increases in assessed value to 3% or the rate of inflation—whichever is lower. This ensures that property owners are shielded from sudden spikes in market-driven assessments.

Eligible Nassau County homeowners can apply, review, and manage their exemption applications online, streamlining the process and saving time. The online filing system guides users through eligibility verification, document submission, and confirmation of application status, all from a secure digital platform.

Understanding the Homestead Exemption process in Nassau County helps homeowners take full advantage of available tax savings, remain compliant with Florida property laws, and plan for long-term financial stability. Whether you recently purchased your home or are updating your exemption status, the online filing option provides a convenient and efficient way to secure this essential tax benefit.

Understanding the Homestead Exemption in Nassau County

The Homestead Exemption in Nassau County is one of the most important property tax benefits available to Florida homeowners. It offers a reduction in the taxable value of your primary residence, resulting in lower annual property taxes. Beyond immediate savings, this exemption also provides long-term financial protection by limiting how much your property’s assessed value can increase each year under the Save Our Homes (SOH) cap. Understanding how the exemption works, who administers it, and what additional exemptions you may qualify for can help you maximize your property tax benefits.

How the Homestead Exemption Reduces Property Taxes

The Homestead Exemption directly reduces the taxable portion of your home’s assessed value by up to $50,000, significantly lowering the amount of property taxes you owe. The first $25,000 exemption applies to all property taxes, including school district levies, while the second $25,000 exemption applies to non-school taxes on assessed values between $50,000 and $75,000. This reduction helps homeowners save hundreds of dollars each year, depending on property value and local millage rates.

How It Works Under Florida Law

Under Florida Statute 196.031, the Homestead Exemption is available to homeowners who legally own and occupy their property as their permanent residence as of January 1 of the tax year. The law also includes the Save Our Homes (SOH) assessment limitation, which caps annual increases in assessed value at 3% or the rate of inflation—whichever is lower. This ensures that homeowners are protected from sharp increases in taxable value, even if market values rise substantially.

Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Role in Processing Applications

The Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office is responsible for reviewing, verifying, and approving Homestead Exemption applications. The office ensures that applicants meet all eligibility criteria, including proof of ownership, Florida residency, and primary occupancy. Once approved, the exemption is automatically renewed each year as long as the property remains eligible. The Property Appraiser also handles questions, updates, and exemption renewals through both in-person visits and online services.

Other Exemptions You May Be Eligible For

In addition to the standard Homestead Exemption, Nassau County homeowners may qualify for additional property tax exemptions, including benefits for seniors, veterans, surviving spouses, first responders, and persons with disabilities. These exemptions can further reduce your taxable value, offering even greater annual savings. Eligibility for these programs depends on factors such as age, income, disability status, or military service, and applications can typically be submitted alongside your Homestead Exemption filing.

Key Benefits of the Homestead Exemption

The Homestead Exemption in Nassau County offers homeowners more than just immediate property tax relief — it provides long-term financial stability and protection from fluctuating real estate markets. By reducing the taxable value of your property and limiting how much your assessed value can increase annually, the exemption helps residents maintain affordable homeownership over time. Understanding these benefits can help you make informed decisions about applying for and maintaining your exemption to ensure you maximize your property tax savings.

Reduction in Taxable Property Value

The most direct benefit of the Homestead Exemption is a reduction in the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. This means your property taxes are calculated on a lower value, leading to significant annual savings. For instance, if your home’s assessed value is $200,000, the exemption could reduce your taxable value to $150,000. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes, including those levied by school districts, while the second $25,000 applies to non-school taxes. This tiered structure ensures consistent relief across various taxing authorities and benefits homeowners regardless of property size or location within Nassau County.

Protection from Rising Property Taxes (Save Our Homes Cap)

Another major benefit comes from Florida’s Save Our Homes (SOH) Cap, which limits the annual increase in your home’s assessed value to 3% or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower. This feature protects long-term homeowners from sudden spikes in taxable value during periods of rapid real estate growth. For example, if property values in Nassau County increase by 10% in one year, your assessed value will only rise by a maximum of 3%, ensuring predictable and manageable tax bills. This protection continues as long as the property remains your primary residence, creating a safeguard for retirees, families, and residents on fixed incomes.

Long-Term Financial Benefits for Homeowners

Over time, the Homestead Exemption leads to substantial cumulative savings. Because the SOH Cap slows the rate of assessed value growth, homeowners can pay thousands less in property taxes compared to similar non-homestead properties. Additionally, Florida’s Portability provision allows you to transfer some or all of your accumulated SOH savings (up to $500,000) to a new primary residence within the state. This ensures that even if you relocate within Florida, you can continue to benefit from years of protected value growth and lower taxes.

Maximize Your Property Tax Savings in Nassau County

To make the most of your Homestead Exemption, homeowners should apply before the March 1 deadline and ensure all supporting documents are accurate and up to date. It’s also important to review whether you qualify for additional exemptions, such as those for seniors, veterans, or persons with disabilities, which can further reduce your tax liability. Regularly verifying your property details through the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s website ensures that your exemption remains active and that you continue to receive every benefit available to you under Florida law.

The Homestead Exemption is not just a short-term tax break—it’s a strategic financial advantage that rewards homeownership and offers lasting protection against market volatility.

Who Qualifies for the Florida Homestead Exemption?

The Florida Homestead Exemption is a valuable property tax benefit designed to protect residents who make their home their permanent primary residence. In Nassau County, this exemption not only reduces the taxable value of a homeowner’s property but also provides long-term financial protection under the Save Our Homes (SOH) Cap, limiting annual increases in assessed value.

However, eligibility for the exemption is governed by specific Florida laws and administrative rules enforced by the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office. To qualify, homeowners must meet certain ownership, residency, and filing requirements. A clear understanding of these qualifications helps applicants avoid delays, denials, and loss of tax benefits.

Below is a detailed explanation of the qualification criteria, the documentation required, and common mistakes that can prevent approval.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Florida’s Homestead Exemption is not automatically applied; homeowners must demonstrate that they meet the criteria established under Article VII, Section 6 of the Florida Constitution and Florida Statute 196.031. These requirements ensure that only those who truly make their home in Florida as their permanent residence receive the benefit.

Must Own and Occupy the Property as a Primary Residence

To qualify, the applicant must own and occupy the property as their permanent primary residence as of January 1 of the tax year. Ownership may be in the form of:

• Fee simple ownership (recorded deed in the applicant’s name),
• Legal or beneficial interest (such as through a trust or life estate), or
• Ownership through a properly established cooperative or condominium association.

The property must serve as the legal domicile of the applicant — meaning it is their fixed and permanent home where they intend to return whenever absent. The Homestead Exemption does not apply to rental, vacation, or secondary homes. Properties that are leased out for extended periods (more than 30 days per calendar year for two consecutive years) typically lose eligibility.

Must Establish Residency by January 1

Applicants must establish permanent Florida residency by January 1 of the year in which they are applying. Residency is determined by several factors that indicate intent to remain in Florida indefinitely, including:

• Obtaining a Florida driver’s license or state-issued ID card showing the property address,
• Registering to vote in Nassau County,
• Registering vehicles in Florida,
• Filing a Declaration of Domicile with the Clerk of Courts, and
• Updating any professional licenses, income tax records, and mailing addresses to reflect Florida residency.

Residency status is one of the most closely examined elements during the review process. Applicants who maintain ties to another state (such as a driver’s license, voter registration, or tax exemptions) may be denied.

Application Must Be Filed by March 1

The Homestead Exemption application must be submitted by March 1 of each year to qualify for that tax cycle. Applications can be filed:

• Online via the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s website,
• In person at the Property Appraiser’s Office, or
• By mail, provided the application is postmarked by March 1.

Late applications are not accepted unless the applicant demonstrates extenuating circumstances under Florida Statute 196.011(8). Filing early is strongly recommended to allow time for document review and verification.

Only One Exemption per Family Unit

Florida law permits only one Homestead Exemption per family unit, regardless of how many properties are owned. A married couple or family cannot receive exemptions on multiple properties, even if they maintain separate residences or hold individual titles.
This rule is intended to prevent double exemptions and ensure that the tax benefit applies solely to the family’s permanent and primary home.

Proof of Residency and Legal Status

Applicants are required to provide valid documentation to establish proof of both ownership and permanent residency. Acceptable forms of documentation may include:

• Recorded property deed or tax bill showing ownership,
• Florida driver’s license or ID card,
• Florida vehicle registration,
• Nassau County voter registration card,
• Utility bills, insurance policies, or government correspondence showing the property address,
• Declaration of Domicile (if applicable), and
• Immigration documents verifying lawful permanent resident status (for non-U.S. citizens).

Each applicant listed on the deed must provide proof of residency. Foreign nationals or seasonal residents who do not hold permanent residency status (e.g., visa holders) are generally not eligible for the exemption.

Common Mistakes That Can Delay or Deny Your Application

Even qualified homeowners can face issues during the filing process if they make small but critical mistakes. The Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office frequently identifies the following issues as reasons for delay or denial:

1. Filing after the March 1 deadline without valid cause.
2. Using the property as a rental or seasonal residence, which violates primary residence requirements.
3. Failing to provide sufficient proof of residency (for example, outdated driver’s license or voter registration).
4. Owning property jointly with someone who claims residency in another state (dual exemption conflicts).
5. Neglecting to update records after marriage, divorce, death of a spouse, or title changes.
6. Assuming the exemption transfers automatically after purchasing a home — a new application is always required.

To avoid these issues, applicants are encouraged to review the official checklist on the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s website or contact their office directly for clarification before filing.

By meeting all requirements and submitting complete documentation on time, Nassau County homeowners can secure the Florida Homestead Exemption and enjoy both immediate tax savings and long-term protection under the Save Our Homes Cap. This exemption represents one of the most significant benefits available to Florida residents, supporting homeownership stability and protecting families from escalating property taxes.

How to Apply for the Nassau County Homestead Exemption

Applying for the Homestead Exemption in Nassau County is a straightforward process that can be completed online, in person, or by mail. However, to ensure your application is accepted and processed efficiently, it’s important to prepare all necessary documentation, meet eligibility requirements, and file before the March 1 deadline. The Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office oversees the review and approval of Homestead Exemption applications in accordance with Florida Statute Chapter 196.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you successfully apply for the exemption and secure your property tax benefits.

Gather All Required Documents

Before starting your application, gather all documents needed to prove ownership, residency, and eligibility. Submitting complete and accurate documentation helps avoid delays and ensures your application is processed within the appropriate time frame.

Essential documents typically include:

• Proof of Property Ownership – A recorded property deed, closing statement, or property tax bill showing your name.
• Florida Driver’s License or State ID Card – Must display the address of the property for which you’re applying.
• Florida Vehicle Registration – Showing the same property address as your residence.
• Voter Registration Card – Listing Nassau County as your voting district (if applicable).
• Social Security Numbers – Required for all owners applying for the exemption.
• Immigration Documents – For non-U.S. citizens, proof of lawful permanent residency (e.g., Green Card).
• Declaration of Domicile – Filed with the Nassau County Clerk of Courts, if recently relocated to Florida.

If your property is held in a trust, you’ll also need to provide a copy of the trust agreement or the relevant portion verifying your beneficial interest and right of occupancy.

File Online Through the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Portal

The most convenient way to apply for the Homestead Exemption is through the official online filing system provided by the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office. The online application allows you to securely upload documents, verify eligibility, and receive immediate submission confirmation.

Steps to file online include:

1. Visit the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s official website.
2. Navigate to the Homestead Exemption Online Filing Portal.
3. Select “New Application” and enter your parcel number or property address.
4. Complete all required fields, including ownership, residency, and contact details.
5. Upload supporting documentation in the accepted formats (PDF, JPG, or PNG).
6. Review your information carefully before submission.

Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation notice acknowledging your application has been received for processing. Online filing is available year-round, but only applications completed by March 1 are eligible for that tax year’s exemption.

Track Application Status and Receive Confirmation

After filing, applicants can track the status of their Homestead Exemption request through the Property Appraiser’s website or by contacting the office directly.

You may check the following details:

• Whether the application has been received and under review,
• Whether additional documents are required, and
• Whether your exemption has been approved and applied to your property record.

Once the application is approved, the exemption will appear on your Trim Notice (Truth in Millage Notice), typically mailed in August, showing your new taxable value and any applicable savings.

Applicants are encouraged to keep copies of all documents and confirmation emails for future reference.

Filing Deadline and Processing Details (March 1st Deadline)

The deadline to file for the Nassau County Homestead Exemption is March 1 of the applicable tax year. Applications received after this date are automatically considered late and can only be accepted under specific circumstances defined in Florida Statute 196.011(8), such as documented hardship or clerical error.

Key filing and processing details include:

• Filing Period: January 1 through March 1 of each year.
• Processing Time: Applications are typically reviewed and verified within 4–6 weeks.
• Approval Notification: Confirmation is provided by mail or online status update once approved.
• Renewal: Once approved, your Homestead Exemption renews automatically each year as long as ownership and residency remain unchanged.

Missing the deadline can result in the loss of the exemption for that year, potentially increasing your property taxes. Homeowners are strongly encouraged to file early and verify that all documents are current and accurate before submission.

Required Documents for Filing

To successfully file for the Homestead Exemption in Nassau County, applicants must provide specific documents that verify ownership, permanent residency, and eligibility under Florida law (Chapter 196, Florida Statutes). Supplying complete and accurate documentation ensures that your application is processed efficiently and avoids potential delays or denials.

Below are the key documents required and helpful tips to make the filing process smooth and efficient.

Proof of Property Ownership

You must demonstrate that you legally own the property for which you’re seeking the exemption.
Acceptable proof of ownership includes:

• A recorded warranty deed, quitclaim deed, or property deed showing your name as the owner.
• A closing statement or settlement document if the purchase was recent and not yet recorded.
• Property tax bills or official assessment records from the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office.

If the property is held in a trust, include the relevant section of the trust agreement confirming that you have both a beneficial interest and the right to occupy the property as your primary residence.

Florida Driver’s License or State ID

Each applicant must provide a valid Florida Driver’s License or Florida Identification Card that lists the address of the property applying for the exemption.
The address on the ID must match the Nassau County property address.

If you recently moved to Florida, visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) to update your license before filing.
Out-of-state licenses are not accepted as proof of residency for Homestead Exemption purposes.

Vehicle Registration and Voter Registration

Additional documents are required to confirm your permanent Florida residency:

• Florida Vehicle Registration: Your car must be registered in Florida and display the Nassau County address of your homestead property.
• Voter Registration Card: If you are a U.S. citizen, your voter registration should list Nassau County as your voting district.

These documents demonstrate your intent to make Florida your primary, permanent residence, a requirement for Homestead Exemption eligibility.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may provide other acceptable forms of identification, such as an Alien Registration Card (Green Card) or immigration documents verifying lawful permanent residency.

Social Security Numbers for Applicants

Florida law requires that each person applying for a Homestead Exemption provide a Social Security Number (SSN).
The SSN is used solely for verification and is kept confidential under state and federal privacy laws.

For properties with co-owners, such as spouses or family members, Social Security Numbers must be submitted for each person listed on the deed who wishes to be included in the exemption.

Proof of Nassau County Residency

Establishing permanent residency in Nassau County is one of the most important eligibility factors.
You can verify residency using any of the following:

• A Declaration of Domicile filed with the Nassau County Clerk of Courts.
• Utility bills (electric, water, or gas) showing the property as your primary service address.
• Employment documentation or a school enrollment record for dependents residing at the property.
• Bank statements or insurance policies listing the Nassau County address as your residence.

These documents collectively demonstrate that you live full-time in the property and consider it your permanent home as of January 1 of the tax year.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

To make your Homestead Exemption filing process as seamless as possible:

• Double-check all document details (names, addresses, and parcel information) for accuracy.
• Ensure that all identification documents display the same Nassau County address.
• Submit all documents together—incomplete applications may cause delays.
• File early to allow time for corrections before the March 1 deadline.
• If applying online, upload clear, legible scans of your documents in PDF or image format.
• Keep copies of everything you submit for your own records.

If you have questions about what documents qualify or how to prepare them, contact the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office directly for guidance before filing.

After You Apply

Once you’ve successfully submitted your Homestead Exemption application to the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office, your filing will undergo a review and verification process. The Property Appraiser’s staff will examine your documents to confirm ownership, permanent residency, and eligibility based on Florida law.
During this period, you may be contacted for clarification or additional documentation if anything is incomplete or unclear.
If approved, your exemption will be reflected in the next annual tax roll and appear on your TRIM (Truth in Millage) Notice mailed in August.

It’s important to keep your contact information up to date, as official notifications are sent to the mailing address on record.

When Will Tax Savings Begin?

If your application is filed by March 1, your Homestead Exemption becomes effective for that same tax year. The exemption will appear on your Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM Notice) in August, and the reduced taxable value will apply to your November property tax bill.

For example:
If you file by March 1, 2026, your exemption will apply to the 2026 tax year, and you’ll see the savings reflected on your tax bill issued later that year.

Applications submitted after March 1 are processed for the following tax year, as Florida law does not allow retroactive exemptions without qualifying hardship or documented good cause.

How to Check Your Application Status

You can check the status of your Homestead Exemption application through the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Online Portal.
The portal provides updates such as:

• Application received
• Under review
• Pending additional documentation
• Approved or denied

If your application is delayed or you receive a request for additional documents, respond promptly to avoid missing the filing deadline.

For personalized assistance, you may also contact the Property Appraiser’s office via phone or email to confirm your application’s progress.

Can You Lose Your Homestead Exemption?

Yes. You can lose your Homestead Exemption if you no longer meet the eligibility criteria or fail to update your property records when your residency status changes.
Common reasons for exemption loss include:

• Selling or transferring ownership of the property.
• Renting out your homestead as an income property.
• Moving to another permanent residence within or outside of Florida.
• Claiming a similar exemption in another state.

Florida law requires homeowners to notify the Property Appraiser if they are no longer entitled to the exemption. Failure to do so may result in back taxes, penalties, and interest charges for the years the exemption was improperly claimed.

Life Events That May Affect Eligibility

Certain life events can impact your eligibility for the Homestead Exemption or require updates to your property record. Examples include:

• Marriage or Divorce: Ownership or name changes may require documentation updates.
• Death of a Spouse or Co-Owner: The exemption may transfer or need reapplication under new ownership.
• Relocation: If you establish a new primary residence, you may need to reapply for Homestead at your new address.
• Property Ownership Changes: Adding or removing individuals from the deed could affect exemption eligibility.
• Change in Residency Status: Moving out of state, obtaining residency elsewhere, or spending most of the year outside Florida can disqualify you.

To maintain your exemption and continue receiving tax savings, promptly report any of these changes to the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office.

Additional Exemptions Available in Nassau County

Beyond the standard Homestead Exemption, the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office administers several additional property tax exemptions designed to provide financial relief to qualified homeowners. These exemptions recognize and support residents such as senior citizens, veterans, surviving spouses, and individuals with disabilities. Each exemption has specific eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and filing deadlines—typically aligning with the March 1st annual filing deadline.
Understanding these options allows homeowners to maximize their property tax savings and ensure compliance with Florida property laws.

Senior Citizen Exemption

The Senior Citizen Exemption provides additional tax relief to qualifying homeowners aged 65 or older who meet income limitations established annually by the Florida Department of Revenue. To qualify, applicants must:

• Have a homestead exemption on their property.
• Be 65 years of age or older as of January 1 of the tax year.
• Meet the household income threshold for the year (verified through income documentation).

In some cases, Nassau County may also offer a Long-Term Senior Exemption, available to seniors who have lived in their home for 25 years or more, provided the property’s assessed value does not exceed a specified limit.

Applicants must submit proof of age, income (such as tax returns or benefit statements), and residency when filing for this exemption.

Veterans and Disabled Veterans Exemption

Veterans residing in Nassau County may qualify for several exemptions depending on their service status and disability rating:

• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Veterans with a service-connected disability may receive a partial or full exemption on their homestead property, based on the VA-assigned disability percentage.
• Totally and Permanently Disabled Veterans Exemption: Veterans who are 100% permanently disabled due to service-related injuries may qualify for a full exemption from property taxes on their primary residence.
• Surviving Spouses of Veterans: Surviving spouses of veterans who died in active duty or as a result of service-connected injuries may also qualify for ongoing exemption benefits, provided they remain unmarried and continue to occupy the same residence.

Applicants must include official VA documentation, proof of Florida residency, and relevant identification when applying.

Widow, Widower, Blind, and Disabled Exemptions

Nassau County offers additional exemptions for residents who are widowed, blind, or totally and permanently disabled. These include:

• Widow/Widower Exemption: Available to Florida residents who are widowed and not remarried. A copy of the death certificate is typically required.
• Blind Exemption: Granted to legally blind individuals residing in Nassau County, with documentation or certification from a qualified physician or agency.
• Totally and Permanently Disabled Exemption: Available to homeowners who are unable to engage in substantial gainful employment due to a qualifying disability, with proof from a licensed Florida physician or the Social Security Administration.

These exemptions may be combined with the Homestead Exemption to further reduce property taxes.

Applying for Multiple Exemptions Together

Many homeowners in Nassau County qualify for more than one exemption. The Property Appraiser’s Office allows applicants to apply for multiple exemptions during a single filing process—simplifying paperwork and ensuring that residents receive the maximum allowable benefits.

When submitting your application, you should:

• Review eligibility for all exemptions that may apply to your circumstances.
• Provide all supporting documentation (e.g., proof of age, disability, veteran status, or marital history).
• Confirm that your Homestead Exemption has been filed, as it serves as the foundation for most additional exemptions.

Filing multiple exemptions together can significantly reduce your annual property tax burden while maintaining compliance with Florida Statutes. For guidance, contact the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office or visit their official website for updated forms and detailed filing instructions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing

When applying for the Homestead Exemption in Nassau County, accuracy and timeliness are crucial. Even small errors or missed steps can lead to delays, denials, or the loss of valuable property tax benefits. Understanding common filing mistakes helps homeowners ensure that their applications are processed smoothly and approved without complications. The Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office encourages applicants to review all eligibility requirements, verify documentation, and submit forms before the statutory deadlines to avoid preventable issues.

Missing the March 1 Deadline

One of the most common and costly mistakes is missing the March 1 filing deadline. Florida law requires that Homestead Exemption applications be submitted on or before March 1 of the tax year for which the exemption is sought. Late submissions are generally not accepted, except under specific hardship circumstances approved by the Value Adjustment Board (VAB).

To avoid missing this deadline:

• Mark the date in your calendar and set reminders in advance.
• File early to allow time for document verification or corrections.
• Confirm submission and keep a copy of your application confirmation or receipt.

Missing the deadline can result in paying higher property taxes for the entire year, as the exemption cannot be applied retroactively.

Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Information

Another common issue involves incomplete or inaccurate information on the application form. Missing documents, typographical errors, or mismatched data (such as differing addresses between driver’s licenses and property records) can delay or even invalidate your exemption request.

To ensure your application is complete:

• Double-check that all required fields are filled out correctly.
• Upload or attach all supporting documents, including proof of ownership, identification, and residency.
• Review all entries before final submission, especially contact details and parcel numbers.

If any discrepancies are found, the Property Appraiser’s Office may contact you for clarification—but this could delay approval or risk missing the processing window. Accuracy from the start is key to a successful filing.

Misunderstanding Residency and Eligibility Rules

Residency and eligibility requirements for the Homestead Exemption are often misunderstood, leading to denied or revoked exemptions. To qualify, the applicant must own and occupy the property as their permanent residence by January 1 of the tax year and meet all Florida residency requirements.

Common misconceptions include:

• Claiming Homestead Exemption on a property that is not your primary residence (such as a rental or vacation home).
• Maintaining residency in another state while applying in Florida.
• Failing to update your Florida driver’s license, voter registration, and vehicle registration to reflect your Nassau County address.

Misrepresentation—intentional or not—can result in penalties, fines, and back taxes. Homeowners should ensure their residency documentation aligns with county and state records before applying.

Deadlines & Renewals

Filing your Homestead Exemption on time is essential to ensure that you receive the full property tax savings available under Florida law. The Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office adheres to strict state-mandated deadlines for initial filings and renewals, so understanding these timelines helps homeowners avoid unnecessary penalties or missed benefits. While the exemption automatically renews for most eligible homeowners, keeping your information up to date and meeting deadlines is crucial for maintaining your exemption status.

March 1 – Annual Filing Deadline

The annual filing deadline for the Florida Homestead Exemption is March 1 of the applicable tax year. Applications submitted after this date are typically not accepted, as Florida law requires timely filing to qualify for the exemption.

To ensure your application is processed successfully:

• File online early through the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s official portal.
• Confirm your submission by saving the confirmation number or receipt.
• Verify that all eligibility requirements (such as residency as of January 1) are met before filing.

If you miss this deadline, your application will likely be applied to the following tax year, which means you could miss out on significant property tax savings for the current year.

Late Filing and Extension Requests

In limited circumstances, the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) may grant late filings for applicants who can demonstrate extenuating or exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies or unavoidable hardships.

To request a late filing consideration:

• Submit your completed application to the Property Appraiser’s Office as soon as possible.
• Include a written explanation and supporting documentation outlining the reason for the delay.
• The VAB will review each case individually to determine if relief can be granted under Florida law.

Keep in mind that late filing requests are not guaranteed approval and must clearly show that the applicant made a good faith effort to comply with the filing deadline.

Do I Need to Reapply Each Year?

Once your Homestead Exemption has been approved, it will automatically renew every year as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements—meaning you still occupy the property as your primary residence and have not made any ownership or residency changes.

However, homeowners must notify the Property Appraiser’s Office if:

• The property is sold, rented, or no longer used as a primary residence.
• Ownership changes occur (such as adding or removing a spouse or co-owner).
• The homeowner no longer qualifies under Florida residency laws.

Each year, property owners receive a renewal notice confirming their exemption status. If any changes have occurred, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to update their information to avoid loss of exemption or possible penalties for improper claims.

FAQ’s

The Nassau County Homestead Exemption Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section provides homeowners with essential information about how the exemption works, who qualifies, what documents are required, and how to maintain eligibility over time. Navigating Florida’s property tax system can be complex, especially for new homeowners or residents unfamiliar with the exemption process. This section aims to simplify those rules by breaking down the most commonly asked questions in clear, practical terms.

Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing your exemption, or checking if you qualify for additional property tax benefits, understanding the details can help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your savings. From knowing how much you can save to learning what happens when you move or sell your home, these FAQs are designed to help Nassau County residents stay informed, compliant, and confident in managing their property taxes.

All answers are based on guidelines set by the Florida Department of Revenue and the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office, ensuring that homeowners receive accurate and up-to-date information.

Can I Apply for More Than One Exemption?

No, homeowners are allowed to claim only one Homestead Exemption per family unit in the state of Florida. This means you cannot claim exemptions on multiple properties, even if you own more than one home.

The exemption must be applied to your primary residence—the property where you live permanently and intend to remain. However, you may be eligible to combine your Homestead Exemption with other exemptions, such as those for senior citizens, disabled individuals, veterans, widows, or widowers, if you meet the additional eligibility criteria.

Each of these additional exemptions has its own application process and documentation requirements, which can be found through the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office.

How Much Can I Save with the Homestead Exemption?

The Florida Homestead Exemption can reduce the taxable value of your property by up to $50,000, depending on your home’s assessed value and applicable millage rates.

Here’s how it typically works:

• The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes, including school district taxes.
• The second $25,000 applies to the assessed value between $50,000 and $75,000 but excludes school taxes.

In addition to this reduction, the Save Our Homes (SOH) Cap limits the annual increase of your property’s assessed value to 3% or the rate of inflation (whichever is lower). This helps homeowners maintain stable property tax bills even as market values rise. Over time, these benefits can lead to substantial long-term savings.

What Happens If I Move or Sell My Home?

If you move or sell your home, your existing Homestead Exemption will not automatically transfer to your new property. However, Florida law allows for a benefit known as Portability, which lets homeowners transfer up to $500,000 of the SOH cap savings from a previous homestead property to a new one, as long as both properties are located within Florida.

To maintain compliance:

• Notify the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office immediately if you sell, rent, or no longer use the property as your primary residence.
• Apply for a new Homestead Exemption on your new home before the March 1 filing deadline.
• Submit a Portability Application (Form DR-501T) if you wish to transfer your SOH benefit.

Failure to notify the Property Appraiser could result in penalties, back taxes, or loss of future exemption benefits.

How Can I Check My Exemption Status?

You can check the current status of your Homestead Exemption directly through the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s official website. By entering your property address, parcel number, or owner name, you can view:

• Your exemption type and status (active, pending, or removed)
• The current year’s taxable and assessed property values
• Details on any additional exemptions applied to your account

If your exemption is not appearing as expected or you have questions about its status, you can contact the Property Appraiser’s Office by phone, email, or in person. Having your parcel ID or property address ready will help expedite the process.

What Documents Are Required for Application?

When applying for the Nassau County Homestead Exemption, homeowners must provide valid proof of ownership, residency, and identification to verify eligibility. Typical documents include:

• Property deed or recorded title as proof of ownership
• Florida Driver’s License or State ID reflecting your Nassau County address
• Florida Vehicle Registration and Voter Registration Card with matching information
• Social Security numbers for all applicants
• Utility bills or official correspondence confirming Nassau County residency

It’s important to ensure all documentation reflects your permanent Nassau County address and is consistent across all state records. Providing incomplete or incorrect information can delay processing or cause your application to be denied.

For faster service, homeowners are encouraged to file online through the Property Appraiser’s secure portal and upload digital copies of required documents.