Florida homestead exemption to rise to $150,000 in January
Florida voters approved Amendment 3, expanding the homestead exemption for primary residences. The first increase takes effect in January, raising the exemption to $150,000, with further growth to $250,000 by 2028. The change impacts homeowners whose main home qualifies for the exemption.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Homestead exemption increases from $50,000 to $150,000 in January, then to $250,000 by 2028
- Timing
- First increase takes effect in January, with further rise scheduled for 2028 and inflation adjustments thereafter
- Who is affected
- Owners of qualifying primary residences in Florida
The details
- Takes effect
- January
- Previous rule
- The homestead exemption for primary residences was $50,000.
- New rule
- Amendment 3 raises the exemption to $150,000 in January and to $250,000 by 2028, with future adjustments tied to inflation.
Amendment 3 expands the homestead exemption
The ballot measure approved by Florida voters adds a substantial increase to the homestead exemption that reduces the taxable value of a qualifying primary residence. Under the prior rule, homeowners could exempt $50,000 of their property value from certain local taxes. The amendment lifts that amount to $150,000 at the start of the next calendar year.
- Exemption rises from $50,000 to $150,000 in January
- Further increase to $250,000 scheduled for 2028
- Subsequent adjustments will follow inflation rates
Implementation timeline
The first phase of the exemption increase becomes active in January following the November 2026 election. A second phase is set for 2028, at which point the exemption will reach $250,000. After that point, the exemption amount will be indexed to inflation, ensuring it maintains purchasing power over time.
- January: $150,000 exemption begins
- 2028: exemption climbs to $250,000
- Post‑2028: annual inflation‑linked adjustments
Implications for homeowners and local governments
Homeowners with qualifying primary residences can expect lower annual property‑tax bills, though the exact savings depend on local tax rates and assessed property values. The exemption does not apply to school board taxes, which remain fully taxable. Municipalities that rely on residential property taxes may see reduced revenue, prompting a review of budgeting and service funding strategies.
- Potential reduction in taxable assessment for eligible homes
- School board levies remain unchanged
- Local authorities may need to adjust budgets to offset revenue loss
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- No change to travel itineraries or entry requirements for visitors to Florida
- Tour operators and hotels are not affected by the property‑tax amendment
Cost and documents
- No new travel‑related fees are introduced by the amendment
- Travelers do not need additional documentation because of the tax change
What you need to do
- Homeowners should verify eligibility for the expanded exemption with their county tax assessor
- Applicants must submit the standard exemption application using existing forms
Who this affects
-
Florida homeowners with primary residence
Amendment 3 directly expands the homestead exemption that applies to their main home
What to do Apply for the increased exemption through the county tax assessor
-
Prospective homebuyers moving to Florida
Future property‑tax calculations will use the larger exemption amount
What to do Factor the higher exemption into budgeting for purchase costs
-
Local government finance officers
Reduced taxable property values will affect municipal revenue forecasts
What to do Adjust budgeting and explore alternative funding sources
Frequently asked questions
When does the new Florida homestead exemption take effect?
The first increase to $150,000 becomes effective in January following the November 2026 election.
How much will the homestead exemption increase under Amendment 3?
It will rise from $50,000 to $150,000 in January and later to $250,000 by 2028, with inflation‑linked adjustments thereafter.
Are school board taxes affected by the exemption increase?
No, school board taxes are excluded from the amendment and remain fully taxable.
What eligibility criteria apply for the expanded homestead exemption?
The exemption applies only to qualifying primary residences; investment properties, vacation homes and secondary residences do not qualify.
How will the exemption change after 2028?
After reaching $250,000 in 2028, the exemption amount will be adjusted each year based on inflation rates.
Will the exemption increase affect my travel plans to Florida?
The property‑tax change does not alter travel entry requirements, visa rules, or any tourism‑related arrangements.
