Media Contact: Bill Ward, Tel. (813) 276-8910; Cell (813) 297-2142

TAMPA - The final day Hillsborough County property owners can file for a 2016 Homestead Exemption, as well as any other exemption for that tax year, is Tuesday, Sept. 13. Any application received after that date will be applied to the 2017 tax roll, said Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez.

"The Florida Constitution guarantees a property owner's ability to receive a tax-savings exemption on their homestead and we want everyone who is eligible to take advantage of this opportunity," Henriquez said. "There are only a few days left to apply for a 2016 exemption, but our office is here to help eligible homeowners complete the process."

To be eligible for a 2016 Homestead Exemption, applicants must have a legal or beneficial title to the property and be residing there as of Jan. 1, 2016. Florida law allows a deduction of up to $50,000 from the market value of the residence.

Another important advantage of receiving Homestead Exemption is the Save Our Homes Amendment. This amendment to the Constitution of the State of Florida, put into effect in 1995, places a "cap" or limitation of 3% on any annual assessment increase on homestead properties in the state. Once homestead exemption is granted, the assessed value of that property cannot increase more than 3% the following year, or the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is less.

Hillsborough County residents can file for their homestead exemption online by visiting the Property Appraiser's website at https://homestead.hcpafl.org/ApplyOnline/WebForm1.aspx

Written applications for an exemption must be postmarked by Sept. 13, or turned in to the Property Appraiser's offices by the end of business that day at 5 p.m.

For more information about the homestead and other exemptions, call the HCPA at (813) 272-6100, or visit http://www.hcpafl.org/Property-Info/Homestead-Other-Info