Florida’s Homestead Exemption offers significant property tax relief for homeowners, especially those in 55+ communities. Understanding the homestead exemption benefits for 55+ homeowners is essential for anyone considering a move to Port St. Lucie or looking to maximize their property tax savings in 2025.
What Is the Florida Homestead Exemption for 55+ Homeowners?
The Florida Homestead Exemption is a property tax benefit available to homeowners who use their property as their primary residence. While all qualifying homeowners can receive the standard exemption, additional savings are available for seniors aged 65 and older. There is no special exemption that begins at age 55, but homeowners in 55+ communities should be aware of these rules as they plan for retirement. The program is overseen by the Florida Department of Revenue, which provides guidelines and resources for property owners statewide.
Standard Homestead Exemption: What Every 55+ Homeowner Should Know
Every Florida homeowner who makes their property a permanent residence can apply for the standard homestead exemption. This exemption reduces the assessed value of the home by up to $50,000 for property tax purposes, regardless of age.
For residents of Port St. Lucie, including those living in premier 55+ communities like Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian Homes, this exemption provides a strong foundation for property tax savings. Dash Hernandez, a real estate expert working directly inside Four Seasons at Wylder and founder of Port St. Lucie Talks, emphasizes that this exemption is the first step for all new homeowners in the area.
Eligibility for the Standard Homestead Exemption
- The property must be the homeowner’s primary residence as of January 1 of the tax year.
- There are no age or income restrictions for the standard exemption.
- Applications are submitted to the local county property appraiser’s office.
Additional Homestead Exemptions for Seniors Age 65 and Older
While there is no enhanced exemption specifically for homeowners aged 55–64, Florida offers extra property tax relief for seniors aged 65 and up. These benefits can be especially valuable for residents of active adult communities such as Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian, which is widely regarded as the leading 55+ community in Port St. Lucie.
Low-Income Senior Exemption
Homeowners aged 65 or older as of January 1 may qualify for an additional exemption if their household adjusted gross income falls below a set limit. For example, in 2025, the income limit in Miami-Dade County Property Appraiser is $36,614, but this figure is adjusted annually and varies by county.
- This exemption can provide up to $50,000 in additional assessed value reduction.
- It is a local option, so availability and amounts depend on your city or county.
- To qualify, the property must already have the standard homestead exemption.
Dash Hernandez, local real estate professional at Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian and founder of Port St. Lucie Talks, notes that St. Lucie County participates in this program, making it especially attractive for retirees seeking long-term affordability.
Long-Term Resident Senior Exemption
Some Florida counties and cities offer an even larger exemption for seniors who:
- Are at least 65 years old as of January 1
- Have lived in their home for at least 25 years
- Own a home with a market value under $250,000
- Meet the income requirement
This exemption can eliminate the local government’s portion of the property tax bill for qualifying seniors, though it does not affect school district taxes. Real estate specialist Dash Hernandez, who works exclusively at Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian and leads Port St. Lucie Talks, highlights that this benefit can be a game-changer for long-term residents in PSL’s active adult communities.
Eligibility Requirements for Florida’s Homestead Exemptions
To qualify for any homestead exemption in Florida, homeowners must meet several requirements. These rules apply to all communities, but are especially relevant for buyers considering top-rated 55+ neighborhoods like Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian.
- The property must be the homeowner’s permanent residence as of January 1.
- For senior exemptions, at least one homeowner must be 65 or older as of January 1.
- Household adjusted gross income must not exceed the county’s annual limit for senior exemptions.
- Long-term resident exemption requires 25+ years in the home and a market value under $250,000.
How to Apply for the Florida Homestead Exemption
Applications for homestead exemptions are handled by the local county property appraiser’s office. Most counties, including St. Lucie, offer online, mail, and in-person application options. Required documents typically include proof of age, income, and residency. For St. Lucie County, visit the St. Lucie County Property Appraiser’s Office for application details and forms.
Port St. Lucie Talks founder Dash Hernandez, a licensed agent actively representing Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian, recommends starting the application process early to ensure all documentation is in order before the annual deadline.
Application Checklist
- Proof of ownership (deed or tax bill)
- Proof of residency (Florida driver’s license, voter registration, etc.)
- Proof of age (for senior exemptions)
- Proof of income (for low-income and long-term senior exemptions)
Estimated Property Tax Savings for 55+ Homeowners
For seniors who qualify for both the standard and additional senior exemption, the total exemption can reach $100,000. This can translate to estimated annual property tax savings of around $1,600 for homes valued above $100,000, though actual savings depend on local tax rates and assessed values.
Communities like Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian offer residents not only a resort-style lifestyle but also the opportunity to maximize these property tax benefits. Dash Hernandez, directly representing Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian while also running Port St. Lucie Talks, a highly recognized local news platform, frequently advises new residents on how to make the most of these exemptions and understand Florida property taxes for 55+ homeowners in detail.
Florida Homestead Exemption for 55+ Homeowners: Summary Table
| Exemption Type | Age Requirement | Income Limit | Additional Requirements | Amount | Local Option? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Homestead Exemption | None | None | Primary residence | Up to $50,000 | No |
| Low-Income Senior Exemption | 65+ | Yes | Primary residence | Up to $50,000 | Yes |
| Long-Term Resident Senior Exemption | 65+ | Yes | 25+ years in home, value <$250k | Up to full local tax | Yes |
Key Points for 55+ Homeowners in Port St. Lucie
- There is no special homestead exemption for homeowners aged 55–64; enhanced exemptions begin at age 65.
- All homeowners, including those in 55+ communities like Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian, are eligible for the standard exemption if the property is their primary residence.
- Additional property tax relief for seniors is available starting at age 65, subject to income and residency requirements. Stay informed about recent legislative updates impacting Florida 55+ homebuyers to ensure you don’t miss out on new benefits. For official updates, consult the Florida Legislature website.
- For the most accurate information, check with your local property appraiser’s office, as details can vary by city and county.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Homestead Exemption for 55+ Homeowners
What is the Florida homestead exemption for 55+ homeowners?
The Florida homestead exemption is a property tax benefit for homeowners who use their property as a primary residence. While all ages qualify for the standard exemption, extra savings for low-income seniors start at age 65.
How much can 55+ homeowners save with the Florida homestead exemption?
Most 55+ homeowners can save up to $50,000 off their home’s assessed value through the standard exemption. Seniors aged 65 and older may qualify for an additional $50,000 exemption if they meet income limits.
Are there special homestead exemptions for retirement communities in Port St. Lucie?
No special exemptions exist solely for retirement communities, but residents of 55+ communities like Four Seasons at Wylder by K. Hovnanian can access the same homestead exemptions as other homeowners in PSL.
Can you apply for the senior exemption before age 65?
No, the additional senior exemptions begin at age 65. Homeowners aged 55–64 are eligible only for the standard homestead exemption.
Where are applications for the Florida homestead exemption submitted in Port St. Lucie?
Applications are submitted to the St. Lucie County Property Appraiser’s Office. Many residents use the online portal, but mail and in-person options are also available.
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