How to file for Florida Homestead Tax Exemption in Duval or St Johns County

How to File for Your Florida Homestead Exemption (Duval & St. Johns County Guide)

If you recently purchased a home in Florida and it’s now your primary residence, you may be eligible for a homestead exemption—a great way to reduce your property taxes. Florida offers this benefit to full-time residents, and applying for it is fairly straightforward if you know where to start.

Below, I’ll walk you through the basics of the homestead exemption, who qualifies, how to apply in Duval and St. Johns Counties, and where to get the most accurate information. (And just a quick note: I’m not a tax advisor—this blog is for general information only. Always confirm details with your county property appraiser’s office.)

What Is the Florida Homestead Exemption?

The homestead exemption can lower the taxable value of your home by up to $50,000, which means you pay less in property taxes.

  • The first $25,000 applies to all taxing authorities, including school taxes.

  • The second $25,000 applies only to non-school taxes and only to the assessed value between $50,000 and $75,000.

It also activates Florida’s “Save Our Homes” cap, which limits increases in assessed value to 3% per year (or the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is less). That’s a big help for long-term homeowners trying to manage property tax increases over time.

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible, you must:

  • Own the property and occupy it as your permanent residence as of January 1st of the year you’re applying

  • Be a Florida resident

  • Not be receiving a similar exemption in another state or county

You only need to apply once—the exemption automatically renews each year, unless something changes (like your ownership or residency).

Important Deadline: March 1

Your application must be submitted by March 1 to qualify for that year’s tax savings. If you miss it, your exemption could be delayed until the next calendar year, so mark your calendar!

How to Apply in Duval County

Duval County Property Appraiser Website: https://www.duvalpa.com

Duval County makes it easy to apply online. After your name appears on the recorded deed (usually within a few weeks after closing), you can submit your application.

What You’ll Need:

  • Florida driver’s license or state ID showing the property address

  • Florida vehicle registration with the same address

  • Voter registration card (if applicable)

  • Social Security numbers for all applicants

  • Proof of permanent residency, if not a U.S. citizen

📍 Start your application here: https://homestead.coj.net

Need help? You can call Duval’s Customer Service/Exemptions Division at (904) 255-5900 or email pacustserv@coj.net.

How to Apply in St. Johns County

St. Johns County Property Appraiser Website: https://www.sjcpa.gov

In St. Johns County, once your deed has been processed (again, usually a few weeks after closing), you can apply online or in person.

What You’ll Need:

  • Florida driver’s license or ID card with the property address

  • Vehicle registration showing the same address

  • Social Security numbers for all applicants

  • Voter registration card (if applicable)

  • Green Card, if you’re a permanent resident but not a U.S. citizen

📍 Start your application here: https://www.sjcpa.gov/exemptions

Need help? Call the St. Johns County Property Appraiser at (904) 827-5500 or email exemptions@sjcpa.us.

Bonus Tip: Portability

If you're moving from another Florida home with a homestead exemption, you may be eligible to transfer your “Save Our Homes” cap to your new property. This can save you thousands in future tax increases! Read our blog post on Florida Portability and/or ask your property appraiser’s office about portability when you file.

Wrapping Up

Filing for your homestead exemption is one of the easiest ways to save money on your Florida property taxes. Just be sure to apply by March 1, gather the right documents, and double-check everything with your county’s official office.

If you have questions or need help finding your property information online, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to point you in the right direction!

Disclaimer: I’m not a tax professional and this is not tax advice. This blog is for informational purposes only. Please contact your local property appraiser for current requirements and official guidance.