Tampa, FL property tax exemptions for deployed military?

Hi guys, I'm a junior considering options after graduation. My family lives in Tampa, FL. If I decide to join the military and get deployed, would there be any property tax exemptions? Thanks in advance!

Absolutely, there are specific exemptions in Florida for deployed servicemembers when it comes to property taxes. This is called a "Deployed Servicemember Exemption." According to the Florida Department of Revenue, you may qualify for this exemption if you were deployed during the last calendar year on active duty outside of the United States or away from your permanent station of duty, in connection with a designated military operation.

The percentage of the exemption you're eligible for is determined by the number of days you were deployed. In other words, the exemption relates to the proportion of the year you were deployed. It's applied to your taxable value before the school board levies and certain voted indebtedness levies are calculated.

To be eligible, you'll need to submit Deployment documentation that clearly indicates your dates and location of deployment, this could be your military orders or a letter from your commanding officer. In addition, you have to claim and receive homestead exemption on the property for the tax year under consideration.

Remember, this exemption is not automatic; you would need to apply for it with your county property appraiser. The application deadline is usually March 1, but exact dates may vary by county, so it would be wise to check with your local county tax assessor's office for the most accurate information.

On top of the Deployed Servicemember Exemption, Florida also offers a $5,000 homestead exemption for veterans who have a service-connected disability and the Homestead Property Tax Discount for Veterans Age 65 and Older with a Combat-Related Disability. Keep those in mind as you think through your decision!