Filing Homestead Exemptions
If you bought a home in the Florida Panhandle recently, you likely have a long to-do list. But there is one task that literally pays you to complete it: filing Homestead Exemption.
As a Real Estate agent, I don’t want my new homeowners to leave money on the table by missing the March 1st deadline. This isn’t just about saving a few dollars; the Homestead Exemption reduces your home’s assessed value by up to $50,000, which can shave hundreds (or thousands) off your annual tax bill. Even more importantly, it locks in the “Save Our Homes” cap, which limits how much your property assessment can rise each year, protecting you from spiking market values.
Here is your step-by-step guide to filing homestead exemptions in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.
Filing Homestead Exemption in Escambia County
Escambia County offers a robust online filing system known as the “Homestead Online” portal.
Where to File:
Website: escpa.org (Look for the “Exemptions” tab).
Direct Portal: exol.escpa.org
Physical Office: Escambia County Property Appraiser (Downtown Pensacola, Molino, etc.).
The Online Process:
Navigate to the Escambia Property Appraiser’s online portal.
You will likely need to create a simple account to verify your identity.
The system will walk you through the “RX-1” or standard Homestead application.
If you are not comfortable online, Escambia has very helpful staff at their physical offices who can assist you with the paperwork.
Required Documents:
Florida Driver’s License or ID card (Reflecting the homestead address).
Social Security numbers for all owners and spouses (even if the spouse is not on the deed).
Vehicle Registration (Must also reflect the new address).
Voter Registration card (if you are registered to vote).
Deed: While they have it on file, it helps to know the date recorded.
Filing Homestead Exemption in Santa Rosa County
Santa Rosa County has modernized its system, making it incredibly easy to file from the comfort of your new living room.
Where to File:
Website: srcpa.gov
Physical Office: Santa Rosa County Property Appraiser (Locations in Milton, Midway, and Pace).
The Online Process:
Visit the Santa Rosa Property Appraiser website.
Use the “Property Search” feature to find your home by address or name.
Once on your property’s detail page, look for the “Apply for Exemptions” button (usually a blue button near the owner information).
Follow the wizard to upload your documents.
Required Documents:
Florida Driver’s License or ID card (Must reflect the address of the property you are claiming).
Social Security numbers for all owners and spouses (even if the spouse is not on the deed).
Vehicle Registration (Must also reflect the new address).
Voter Registration card (if you are registered to vote).
Date of occupancy (when you moved in).
Expert Note: Santa Rosa requires that you have updated your Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration to the new address before you apply online.
Summary Checklist:
Update your ID: Go to the DMV and change your Driver’s License and Car Registration to your new address immediately.
Mark the Calendar: The hard deadline is March 1st of the year after you bought the home (or the year you are claiming residence).
File Online: Use srcpa.gov for Santa Rosa or escpa.org for Escambia.
Check for Receipt: You should receive a receipt (usually a postcard) in January of the following year confirming your renewal.
Live Like a Local
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