Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I establish Florida residency?
What is the Florida Homestead Exemption and how do I file for it?
How are real estate taxes levied in Florida?
What is the tax rate?
What is the crime rate?
How is the school system?
Is it expensive to live in Florida?
How do the area hospitals rate?
Establishing Residency
To establish residency, you may register to vote or file a Declaration of Domicile, which is an affidavit available at the County Courthouse. Filing one copy with the Circuit Court provides a record of your intention to make Florida your home. Simply moving to the State does not guarantee legal residency. For more information call the Clerk of Circuit Court at 561-288-5576.
Homestead Exemption
In Florida, $25,000 of the assessed value of your home is exempt from real estate takes, but you have to meet certain criteria to be eligible for the exemption. First you much have the title or record to your property as of January 1, and reside on the property. You have to be a legal and permanent resident of Florida as of January 1 and March 1. When applying for the exemption status, bring along a copy of your deed or tax bill, and a Florida county voters registration or Declaration of Domicile. If you drive, you must also bring your Florida driver's license and automobile registration. New applications must be submitted in person at the appraiser's office, but renewals may be done by mail. For further information, consult the County Property Appraiser's Office at 561-288-5608
Real Estate Taxes
Taxes on real estate are levied by Martin County, it's several cities and special districts. All residents are subject to county taxes, but each city or special district levies taxes within its boundaries. City, special-district, and county taxes are combined in one tax bill. Real estate taxes are assessed as of January 1 each year. They are due and payable on November 1 and become delinquent if not paid before April 1 of the following year. Florida law holds the taxpayer responsible for receiving and paying tax bills in full. For additional information call the County Property Appraiser's Office at 561-288-5609
What is the tax rate?
Taxes in Martin County, depending on the town, are 18.6 - 19.8 mils per $1,000 of assessed property value with a $25,000 Homestead Exemption for full time residents. Sales tax is 6%. There is no Florida State Income Tax.
What is the crime rate?
Statistics show that Martin County is a safe place to live. It is much safer than counties north and south of us. The crime rate in Martin County has dropped every year for the past eight years.
How does the school system rank?
Martin County schools recently ranked in the top 100 in the nation. Our schools also have outstanding sports and music programs.
Is it expensive to live in Florida?
Martin County is north of the very expensive areas of Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
How do the hospitals rate?
Martin Memorial Hospital has been ranked in the top 100 hospitals nationally in both 1998 and 1999.
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