Q: When are Volusia County property taxes due for FY 2025-2026?
A: Property taxes are due November 1, 2025. Early payment discounts are available: 4% in November, 3% in December, 2% in January, and 1% in February. Taxes become delinquent on April 1, 2026.
Q: What homestead tax credit is available and how do I apply?
A: The homestead exemption provides up to $50,000 reduction in assessed value for primary residences. You must own and occupy the property as your permanent residence by January 1. Applications are available at the Volusia County Property Appraiser's office or vcpa.vcgov.org. The 2025 exemption amount is $25,722.
Q: Does homestead exemption reduce my property's market value?
A: No, homestead exemption reduces your taxable assessed value, not market value. It also caps annual assessment increases at 3% under Florida's Save Our Homes law, but requires annual application to maintain benefits.
Q: What other tax credits require applications?
A: Senior exemptions, disability exemptions, veteran exemptions, and agricultural classifications all require separate applications with supporting documentation. None are automatic - you must apply through the Property Appraiser's office by March 1 annually.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: File a petition with the Volusia County Value Adjustment Board by July 1. Contact the Property Appraiser first at (386) 736-5901 to discuss your concerns informally before filing a formal appeal.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Interest accrues at 18% annually starting April 1. Properties become eligible for tax certificate sales in May, and tax deed sales can occur after two years of delinquency.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, visit the Volusia County Tax Collector website at volusia.org/government/tax-collector for online payment options including credit cards and electronic checks.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Volusia County?
A: Municipal taxes, fire districts, library districts, and other special taxing districts create different combined rates. Properties in cities like Daytona Beach or DeLand pay additional municipal taxes, while unincorporated areas may have different special district assessments.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax bill?
A: New construction completed after January 1, major renovations, ownership changes affecting Save Our Homes benefits, or changes in property use classification can trigger supplemental taxes prorated for the remaining tax year.
Q: How do I transfer Save Our Homes benefits when moving within Florida?
A: File portability applications with both your old and new county property appraisers. You can transfer up to $500,000 in Save Our Homes benefit to a new homestead within Florida, but applications must be filed by March 1 following the year you establish the new homestead.
