{"id":369417,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:27","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/realestate\/owning-a-home\/property-tax-exemptions.html"},"modified":"2025-09-03T18:20:54","modified_gmt":"2025-09-03T23:20:54","slug":"property-tax-exemptions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/owning-a-home\/property-tax-exemptions.html","title":{"rendered":"Property Tax Exemptions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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How To Claim Property Tax Exemptions<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Lark Lewis, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Jordan Walker, J.D.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n

Owning real estate comes with a host of financial responsibilities.\u00a0For many property owners, property taxes rank among the most significant, and often unwelcome, expenses. The amount you owe can vary widely depending on where you live and the assessed value of your real property. Failing to plan ahead can make the property tax bill feel even more burdensome when it arrives. Homeowners may be eligible for a variety of property tax exemptions that can provide meaningful relief in your municipality, especially from expensive special assessments. From incentives for restoring historic properties to exemptions for seniors, veterans, and other qualifying groups, these programs are designed to ease the tax burden and encourage community development.<\/i><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

This article provides an overview of the most common property tax exemptions, explains how to apply for them, and outlines who may qualify for special tax relief.<\/p>\n

Property Tax Exemptions: Basics<\/h2>\n

In general, all\u00a0real and personal property is subject to tax<\/a>\u00a0unless specifically exempted. Exemptions, which provide relief from certain tax obligations, come in many forms. These\u00a0tax exemptions<\/a>\u00a0include the property’s use,\u00a0such as\u00a0for religious or charitable purposes,\u00a0and the form of the property’s ownership.<\/p>\n

State and local governments use exemptions to help attract new businesses or encourage certain types of property development. Examples of encouraged development might include low-income housing or the reclaiming of historic sites.<\/p>\n

Exemptions range\u00a0from complete to partial tax relief<\/a>. The extent of the relief depends on the laws of the state and local\u00a0taxing authorities\u00a0and the nature of the exemption. One town may provide a full exemption for personal or business property, while\u00a0another may only provide a partial exemption for the same property type.<\/p>\n

Limitations can be expressed in dollar amounts or as a percentage of value. Homeowners’ exemptions are an example of this kind of partial exemption.<\/p>\n

Who Is Eligible for Special Tax Exemptions?<\/h2>\n

Depending on local tax laws, you might be eligible for special tax exemptions. The following categories of people are more likely to qualify for special tax exemptions:<\/p>\n