How To Apply

How to file your homestead exemption application:

All applicants must complete the application, either by mail, in person, or online by March 1st. Mailed applications need to be postmarked on or before March 1st. If you are prevented from timely filing due to extenuating circumstances, you may file a late application with documentation explaining the reason for late filing.

File Online

Start Your Application

File In Person

To apply in person, bring the Information Required to Apply to our office locations as follows:

File By Mail

To print a homestead application and send via mail:

• You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader 3.0 or higher to access and print this form.
• Click here to download the application
• Fill out your application with the Information Required to Apply, then mail it to this address:

Property Appraiser
ATTN: Exemption Department
3473 SE Willoughby Blvd., Suite 101
Stuart, FL 34994

• Each applicant must also complete and sign the "Residency Affidavit" that prints with the homestead exemption application you have downloaded.

To obtain a signed copy of your original application, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. A copy of your application, signed by this office, will provide proof that your application was received.

Florida Statute Update for Homestead Exemption Filing Deadlines:

Please be advised that Florida Statute 196.011(8) states any applicant who is qualified to receive any exemption under subsection (1) and who fails to file an application by March 1, must file an application for the exemption with the property appraiser on or before the 25th day following the mailing by the property appraiser of the notices required under Florida Statute 194.011(1) ("Notice of Proposed Property Taxes"). The property appraiser may grant the late filed applications if she feels the applicant would have qualified had they filed a timely application.

However, if the applicant fails to produce sufficient evidence demonstrating the applicant was unable to apply for the exemption in a timely manner or otherwise demonstrating extenuating circumstances as judged by the property appraiser, the applicant may file, pursuant to Florida Statute 194.011(3), a petition with the value adjustment board requesting that the exemption be granted. Such petition must be filed during the taxable year on or before the 25th day following the mailing of the notice by the property appraiser as provided in Florida Statute 194.011(1) "Notice of Proposed Property Taxes".