Lisa Barton

The Duval County Property Appraiser's Office now offers an online method to apply for homestead exemption, saving homeowners time and money. Previously, new homeowners had to either visit the Appraiser's office downtown or submit applications by fax or mail with additional attachments. The intuitive application asks necessary questions based on responses. The homestead exemption is a benefit for Florida homeowners which can provide up to $50,000* off the assessed value of a home; lowering property taxes. Once in place, the homestead exemption triggers another state law which limits the increase in the property's assessed value to three percent or less per year. Qualifying homeowners who moved into their home after Jan. 1, 2011 are eligible for a 2012 exemption and may file now through the March 1, 2012 deadline. The application is available at DuvalPA.com.

*A portion of the exemption does not apply to school taxes.