Florida Homeowner Tax Tips: 5 Smart Steps to Prepare for Tax Season

Preparing for tax season is never fun, but for homeowners in Jacksonville Florida, a little preparation can go a long way. From property tax exemptions to hurricane-related relief, understanding what to do now can save you money and stress later. If you’re looking for Florida homeowner tax tips, this guide breaks down five smart steps to help you prepare for filing season.

1. Review Your Property Tax Bill & Homestead Exemption in Florida

One of the biggest savings opportunities available to Florida residents is the Homestead Exemption. This can reduce your home’s assessed taxable value by as much as $50,000, cutting your property tax bill significantly.

• File with your county property appraiser by March 1 if you’ve recently purchased or changed your primary residence.

• Look into additional exemptions for seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, or surviving spouses.

Pro tip: Many homeowners forget to double-check their exemption status after moving. Making sure you’re filed correctly is one of the most important steps in Florida property tax preparation.

2. Gather Mortgage & Insurance Documents Early

Your lender will send Form 1098, which includes your annual mortgage interest and property tax payments. These documents are crucial when filing federal taxes.

Don’t forget to collect homeowners’ and flood insurance statements, too. While premiums typically aren’t deductible, they may become essential if you file casualty loss claims after a natural disaster.

3. Save Records of Home Improvements & Energy Upgrades

Capital improvements—such as roof replacements, hurricane-proof windows, or solar installations—add to your home’s cost basis. That means when you sell, you’ll owe less in capital gains taxes.

• Keep all receipts and contracts for improvements.

• If you’ve made energy-efficient upgrades, you may qualify for valuable federal energy tax credits.

For many homeowners, these upgrades serve double duty: protecting your property from storms and lowering your tax bill.

4. Report Rental or Airbnb Income Correctly

Florida doesn’t have a state income tax, but federal rental income must still be reported. If you rent your home seasonally or list it on Airbnb or VRBO, keep accurate records of:

• Rental income received.

• Expenses like cleaning, repairs, utilities, HOA fees, and depreciation.

Also check whether your county requires you to collect local tourist development taxes on short-term rentals.

5. Prepare for Hurricane-Related Relief Options

Living in Florida means preparing for hurricane season. If your property sustained damage, detailed records of FEMA assistance, insurance claims, and repair costs can help you claim eligible casualty losses in federally declared disaster areas.

Even if you weren’t affected, receipts for storm prep items like generators or shutters can be useful—especially if purchased during Florida disaster preparedness sales tax holidays.

Whether it’s maximizing the Homestead Exemption in Florida, tracking rental income, or documenting storm-related expenses, preparation is key. By following this checklist, you’ll simplify your filing process and uncover opportunities to reduce your tax burden.

When all else fails or if this just seems to daunting, feel free to give us a call. We can simplify this process for you or just do it so you don't have to.