Florida property tax is a form of real estate tax levied by local governments to fund local services and infrastructure. It is calculated by multiplying the taxable value of your property by the local tax rate. There are a number of ways to lower your property taxes, including applying for exemptions and deductions and challenging your assessment. However, it is important to understand the process before making any decisions.
The taxable property value is an important factor in determining the tax rate of your home, and it is often a source of frustration for homeowners. The assessed value is the market price of your property as determined by the county appraiser, while the taxable property value is the sum of all exemptions and deductions.
How to File Florida Property Tax?
Florida property taxes are important to a homeowner’s overall financial picture. They fund local government services and infrastructure. In addition, they help support municipal employees’ salaries. Depending on the value of your home and whether you qualify for any exemptions or discounts, your property tax bill can vary significantly.
Each year, county property appraisers set your home’s taxable value based on its anticipated market value as of January 1. The county sends you a “Notice of Proposed Property Taxes” in August or September with your home’s estimated market value and proposed local millage rates. If you apply for any of the available property tax exemptions before March 1, you can reduce your property taxes.
The rankings on this slide are based on local property taxes, sales taxes, public service (electricity and water), and communications services taxes for a hypothetical couple with a $250,000 home. They were calculated using 2017 local property tax rates and median home values provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. The estimates are rounded up to the nearest whole dollar for comparison purposes.
Florida Property Tax Due Dates
Property taxes are an important aspect of homeownership in Florida, and it is essential that taxpayers are aware of when their property tax payments are due and considered delinquent. In addition, knowing what exemptions are available can help homeowners determine the exact amount they will need to pay.
Real estate and tangible personal property taxes are due in full with no discount by March 31. Applications for the next year’s property tax installment payment plan are due by April 30. Delinquent Tangible Personal Property taxes are advertised in a local newspaper, and the cost of advertising is added to the gross tax amount.
The first property tax installment plan payment must be postmarked on or before July 31 to receive a 6% discount. The second property tax installment plan payment is due by September 30 with a 4% discount. Local business tax receipt renewals are due by October 1. Motor vehicle registrations and renewals for trucks over 5,000 lbs, private passenger vehicles, and trailers are due December 31.