Florida homestead tax deferral is not an exemption

Homestead tax deferral sounds a little like an exemption, but it is a different kind of help.

An exemption can lower taxable value. A deferral delays payment of part or all of certain taxes and assessments for a qualifying homestead. The application goes to the county tax collector each year. The filing date listed for the homestead deferral form is March 31 after the assessment year.

The word “deferral” is the important part. This is not the same as making the tax disappear. Mortgages, liens, household income, age, and the tax collector’s review can all affect the answer.

If a tax bill feels too heavy, ask the county tax collector about deferral before the date passes. Keep the homestead papers, income papers, mortgage information, tax bill, and any denial or approval letter together.

If the tax collector denies the application, the next step may involve the Value Adjustment Board. Slow down there. Read the county instructions before relying on an old story from someone else’s tax year.