Q: When are St. Johns County property taxes due for FY 2025-2026?
A: Property taxes are due in full by March 31, 2026. Unlike many Florida counties, St. Johns County does not offer early payment discounts. Late payments incur penalties and interest charges.
Q: What homestead exemption am I eligible for and how do I apply?
A: Florida homestead exemption reduces your taxable assessed value by up to $50,000 ($25,000 off all taxes, additional $25,000 off non-school taxes). You must apply by March 1st at the St. Johns County Property Appraiser's office and the property must be your primary residence as of January 1st.
Q: How does the Save Our Homes cap work?
A: Save Our Homes limits annual assessment increases to 3% or the Consumer Price Index (whichever is lower) for homesteaded properties. This caps assessment growth, not market value, and requires an approved homestead exemption application.
Q: What other tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: Additional credits include Senior Exemption (65+, income qualified), Disability Exemption, Veterans Exemption, and Widow/Widower Exemption. All require separate applications with documentation and must be filed by March 1st annually.
Q: How can I appeal my property assessment?
A: File a petition with the St. Johns County Value Adjustment Board by the deadline specified on your TRIM notice (typically late July/early August). You can also contact the Property Appraiser first to discuss your concerns informally.
Q: What happens if I pay my taxes late?
A: Late payments incur a penalty of 3% for April, with an additional 1.5% added each month thereafter. Interest also accumulates, and unpaid taxes can result in tax certificate sales.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, visit sjctax.us to pay online with bank transfer or credit card. Credit card payments incur processing fees. You can also pay by phone at (904) 209-2250 or in person at the Tax Collector's office.
Q: Why do special district taxes vary in different parts of the county?
A: St. Johns County has multiple special taxing districts for fire protection, municipal services, community development, and water management. Your total tax rate depends on which districts serve your specific property location.
Q: Can I transfer my Save Our Homes benefit when I move within Florida?
A: Yes, Florida law allows portability of SOH benefits. You can transfer up to $500,000 of benefit to a new homesteaded property within two years. Apply with the new county's Property Appraiser by March 1st.
Q: How do I verify what special districts apply to my property?
A: Contact the St. Johns County Property Appraiser at (904) 827-5500 or check your annual TRIM notice which lists all taxing authorities. Your property's specific district codes determine your total millage rate.
