Just closed on a home in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra or Nocatee? Filing for the St. Johns County homestead exemption is the most important thing to do after closing. It lowers your taxable value and caps future assessment increases, but only if you apply on time.
How Do I File for Homestead in St. Johns County? Quick Answer
You must own and live in the home as your permanent residence on January 1, then apply with the St. Johns County Property Appraiser by March 1 (the next business day if March 1 falls on a weekend). The Property Appraiser accepts homestead and portability applications through an online portal. For the 2026 tax year the Property Appraiser reports a total homestead exemption of $51,411. Both spouses are part of the application.
Step by Step After Closing
- Wait for your deed to record. We e-record your deed with the county, usually right after closing. The Property Appraiser’s online system needs to show you as the owner.
- Update your residency. Get a Florida driver license and vehicle registration showing the new address, and update your voter registration if applicable.
- Apply online through the Property Appraiser’s exemption portal before the March 1 deadline.
- Apply for portability at the same time if you are moving from another Florida homestead, so you can bring some of your Save Our Homes savings with you.
Buying After January 1
If you close after January 1, you generally cannot get the homestead exemption for that tax year, because you did not own and occupy the home on January 1. File by March 1 of the following year. Your first tax bill may reflect the seller’s exemption or the full value, which is why property taxes are prorated at closing.
Why Your Taxes Change After You Buy
When a home sells, the prior owner’s capped assessment does not transfer to you. The property is reassessed at market value as of the next January 1. Budget for that change, especially in newer communities that also have CDD assessments on the tax bill.
Related: CDD fees in St. Johns County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the homestead exemption deadline in St. Johns County?
March 1 each year, or the next business day if March 1 falls on a weekend.
Do I have to file every year?
No. Once granted, the exemption renews automatically while you qualify. Tell the Property Appraiser if anything changes.
Can I file before my deed records?
Usually the online system needs to show you as owner. Ask us when your deed recorded.
Closing in St. Augustine or St. Johns County?
Title Company of Florida handles title searches, title insurance and closings for St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, Nocatee, Ponte Vedra and all of St. Johns County. Sign with a mobile notary near you, by remote online notarization, or by mail, and we record electronically with the county.
Learn more about our St. Augustine title company services.
General information only, not legal or tax advice. County procedures, deadlines and websites can change; confirm with the office named. Title Company of Florida is a Florida licensed title agency (License #G324751).
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