Homestead Exemption fraud is a serious issue that affects every taxpayer. The 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 they are not entitled, law-abiding property owners must make up the difference in lost tax revenue by paying higher taxes.
If you know of anyone who is claiming homestead exemption on a property that they are not permanently residing in, is rented, vacant or is merely a vacation home, we urge you to make a report to our office by completing the form below. In the interest of expediency, it is extremely helpful and time saving to an investigation if we speak to you personally,and you may remain anonymous if you prefer.
Please remember that the status of a property on January 1 each year is used to determine the property's value and exemption status for the entire year. That means if a property owner has Homestead Exemption and sells their property, the 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.
