Permanent residents of Pinellas County may save approximately $500 or more off of property taxes if they file for a homestead exemption before the deadline!
Pinellas County Property Appraiser Jim Smith wants to remind permanent county residents who have purchased a home this year to apply for a Homestead Exemption before the March 1 deadline. Regular office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For the convenience of Pinellas citizens the offices will be open February 18 and February 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p. m.
Homestead Exemption is a $25,000 exemption from a property's assessed value and saves approximately $500 off property taxes. If a home had a homestead at the time of purchase, that exemption will be removed on December 31. As a result, it is necessary to apply for a new exemption in person.
"Homestead Exemption is more important than ever," said Smith. "The first year after the exemption is in effect, the Save Our Homes Amendment kicks in. That can save a homeowner hundreds, even thousands, of dollars in property taxes over the years."
Each individual owner must come to one of the Property Appraiser's offices to file. A married person, however, may file for their spouse, provided they bring their spouse's information, as well as their own. The following documents must be provided by each person filing:
When filing for a widow's/widower's exemption, bring a death certificate or obituary notice; or when filing for a disability exemption, bring property certification of total and permanent disability.
For additional information call the Personal Exemption Division at 727-464-3294, visit one of the offices listed below, or go to the Pinellas County Property Appraiser Office's Internet site athttp://pao.co.pinellas.fl.us
North County
Northside Square
29269 US 19 N., Clearwater
727-464-8780
County Courthouse
2nd Floor - 315 Court Street, Clearwater
727-464-3294
Starkey Lakes Corporate Center
12955 Starkey Road, Suite 3900, Largo
727-582-3160