A 100% VA disability rating can create major long-term savings in Florida, but there are a few
important rules and timing issues you need to understand so you receive the full benefit
available to you.
When to File for the Exemption
You can file on or after January 1 of the year following your home purchase. In most counties, you
will file through the Property Appraiser's office at the same time you apply for your Florida
Homestead Exemption.
Important Refund Rule
You are entitled to a prorated refund of property taxes back to the date you closed on the home, but
you need to ask for it. If taxes were collected through escrow at closing, the county can still refund
the eligible portion after the exemption is processed.
If You Did Not Escrow Taxes
If taxes were not escrowed, you may still need to pay the current tax bill first to avoid penalties.
Once the exemption is approved, you can then request the refund you are owed for the exempt
period.
HB 7063 Matters
Florida's HB 7063 clarified that eligible disabled Veterans can receive a prorated property tax
refund in the year they purchase the home. Some counties have been slow to apply this correctly, so
if you receive pushback, reference HB 7063 and request the refund directly.
What the Exemption Covers
This exemption applies to Ad Valorem property taxes, meaning taxes based on the value of the
home. In plain English, the value-based portion of your Florida property taxes can be eliminated if
you qualify.
What It Does Not Cover
It does not remove Non-Ad Valorem assessments. These are charges that are not based on value,
such as CDD fees, stormwater charges, fire and rescue assessments, solid waste fees, and certain
water or sewer assessments.
Before You Buy
Review the current property tax bill before closing so you can see exactly how much is Ad Valorem
versus Non-Ad Valorem. Older homes often carry fewer extra assessments, while newer
developments may have higher CDD and infrastructure-related charges.
Bottom Line
If you qualify for this exemption, it can remove the value-based portion of your property taxes and
save you thousands over time. The key is filing it correctly, understanding what is and is not
covered, and making sure you request any refund you are entitled to receive.
