People who move to Florida to stay find it useful to establish official residence with a sworn legal certificate called a Declaration of Domicile. This makes it possible to take advantage of the state's generous property tax exemptions.

Misconceptions

Those born in Florida who have lived most of their lives in the state have no need of a domicile certificate.

Features

New Florida residents do not have to meet any minimum time of residence before filing a declaration of domicile. The domicile certificate places no restrictions on maintaining and visiting properties in other states. Filing for a domicile certificate requires going to the office of the county clerk, presenting a valid identification, paying a small fee and signing the declaration, a sworn statement of intention to permanently live in Florida. Although it is filed locally, the declaration of domicile certificate is effective throughout Florida. Only relocating to another state cancels the declaration.

Benefits

Florida residents reap substantial tax benefits from a domicile certificate. After establishing legal residency, they can file for a Homestead Exemption, which usually qualifies them for a $25,000 reduction on the assessed value of their home, effectively lowering property taxes. Another possible benefit of filing a Florida domicile certificate and a homestead exemption includes exemption of the homestead from Florida creditors.

Considerations

After receiving the domicile certificate, new Florida residents declaring Florida as their permanent residence should update all legal documents including wills and deeds to reflect Florida law.

Identification

Other states seeking tax revenue may challenge Florida residency even after one has obtained a Declaration of Domicile certificate. New residents can reinforce claims to permanent residency by getting a Florida driver's license, vehicle registration tags and license plates. Other useful ways to document Florida as one's permanent home include registering to vote locally and filing federal income taxes from the Florida address.

Effects

Florida itself imposes no estate tax, and documented Florida residents will have estate taxes deducted from federal estate taxes.

Source:

StateofFlorida.com: Florida Clerks of Court Offices

Madisonandhoyt.com: Florida Residency Guide