Homestead exemption fraud is a serious issue that affects every taxpayer. Homestead exemption was created as a benefit for homeowners who live in Florida and make it their permanent and legal residence. When someone is receiving an exemption to which he or she is not entitled, law-abiding property owners must make up the difference in lost tax revenue by paying higher taxes.

Please Note: It may appear on our website that someone has two homestead exemptions when they in fact do not. This is because the status of a property on January 1 each year is used to determine the property's value and exemptions for the entire year. This means if a property owner has homestead exemption and sells the property after January 1st, his exemption will remain on the property for the entire calendar year, and will be removed as of January 1 of the next year. Although there will still be an exemption on the property after the sale, it is NOT the new owner's exemption. Check the date of sale to see if this is pertinent to the property. Also, multiple ownership of homesteaded property can lead to confusion about homestead eligibility. One owner may qualify for homestead exemption while the others do not. Please contact our office for multiple ownership details.

If you know of anyone who is claiming homestead exemption on a property where he or she has not established permanent residency, is rented, vacant or is merely a vacation home, we urge you to make a report to our office by completing the form below.