***REMINDER FOR PRIVATE CITIZENS AND FOR NON-PROFIT / CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS*** January 1 of each year is our assessment date. In order to qualify for exemption it is necessary that the applicant have legal title to the property on January 1. If the closing and the official documents conveying ownership are dated after January 1, the applicant will not qualify for exemption for the upcoming year.
Florida Public Records Statute (FS 119.071) Amended The Florida Public Records Exemptions Statute, FS 119.071, has been amended as it relates to the publicly available records maintained by the county property appraiser and tax collector. As a result, exempt (aka confidential) parcels and accounts have been added back to our website and FTP data files. No owner names or Official Records books and pages of recorded documents related to these parcels/accounts, will appear on the Property Appraiser’s website or in FTP data files. In addition, the Polk County Property Appraiser mapping site has been modified to accommodate the statutory change. See Senate Bill 781, which takes effect on July 1, 2021, for additional information. To request an exemption from public records click the links below: Polk County Property Appraiser Request to Block Information from Public Records This form MUST BE submitted with a current photo ID by the person who is qualified for the confidentiality. NOTE: The Property Appraiser Form also applies to the Tax bill provided by the Tax Collector's office. Request for Redaction of Exempt Personal Information From Non-judicial Public Records (polkcountyclerk.net) NOTE: The Clerk of Court is an independent office that offers separate confidentiality related services for recorded documents available online such as deeds - a separate application is required.
Property Tax Education Forum Video On August 31, 2021, The Polk County, Florida Constitutional Officers Presented A Virtual Property Tax Education Forum (youtube.com). The forum was designed to address public interest in Property Tax related issues. Please see Polk County Constitutional Officers Present A Virtual Property Tax Education Forum - Polk County Tax Collector (polktaxes.com) for additional information. Our very own, Sharhonda Roberts, Assistant Property Appraiser, is the first presenter. She demonstrates how to use the https://www.polkpa.org website.
Property Tax Education Forum Video On August 31, 2021, The Polk County, Florida Constitutional Officers Presented A Virtual Property Tax Education Forum. The forum was designed to address public interest in Property Tax related issues. Please see Polk County Constitutional Officers Present A Virtual Property Tax Education Forum - Polk County Tax Collector (polktaxes.com) for additional information. Our very own, Sharhonda Roberts, Assistant Property Appraiser, is the first presenter. She demonstrates how to use the https://www.polkpa.org website. The above video was produced and is hosted by third parties and may not conform to all of the Polk County Property Appraiser accessibility standards.
Florida Public Records Statute (FS 119.071) Amended The Florida Public Records Exemptions Statute, FS 119.071, has been amended to expand exemptions from public records requirements. As a result, exempt (aka confidential) accounts and parcels have been completely redacted from our website and all FTP data files. In addition, the Polk County Property Appraiser mapping site has been modified to accommodate the statutory change. See Senate Bill 248, which takes effect on July 1, 2019, for additional information.
Our Office Does Not Release Tax Payer Phone Numbers or Email Addresses Recently, we have received multiple phone calls and emails from homeowners asking if our office has provided contact information (phone numbers and email addresses) to 3rd party vendors. We have not AND will not release this type of information. Information including owner name, mailing / site address, and value data is public record and available on many governmental websites. Phone numbers and email addresses, however, are generally provided to the Property Appraiser on AG Classification and Exemption applications, etc. These types of forms are known as returns. All returns of property are confidential documents in the hands of the Property Appraiser in accordance with Florida Statute 193.074. This statute includes federal income tax returns or other attachments which are designed to be supplemental to or become part of, a return.
Tax Exemption Application Status If you have applied for a Tax Exemption and would like to know the status of that application, you can check the parcel detail page of our website. Look for the section titled Exemptions. Tax Exemptions approved for the current tax year will be listed in the Exemptions section of the parcel detail page. If an application has been submitted but is awaiting review, you will see a message that states; A Tax Exemption Application has been filed on this property and is awaiting review by the Exemptions Department. Once your application has been reviewed by the Exemptions department, you will receive an email listing the status of each Tax Exemption for which you applied. The status will be either approved or denied. If the exemption is for the current tax year it will be listed on the parcel detail page of our website. If your exemption was approved for next year, it will show on our website the following year.
REMINDERS TO FILE TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY Florida Statute 193.052 requires that all Tangible Personal Property be reported each year to the Property Appraiser's Office. The deadline to file is April 1st*. If you do not file a return or extension by the deadline, you will not qualify for the $25,000 Tangible Personal Property Exemption. Please see Extension for Filing Tangible Personal Property Returns notice from the Florida Department of Revenue. Please view the Help File For online filing instructions. FILE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION AND OTHER PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS ONLINE Marsha Faux, Polk County Property Appraiser, urges new homeowners to file for Homestead Exemption for the 2022 tax year. If you purchased and moved into your home after January 1, 2021, you may now pre-file for a 2022 exemption. If you have purchased a new home and had a previous homestead on another home in Florida, you may be eligible for portability - the transfer of some or all of your old homestead's "Save Our Homes" benefit (the difference between your market and assessed values due to the annual cap on increases). Online filing is available for Homestead, Senior (Age 65 and older), Widow/Widower, Disability, and Disabled Veteran Exemptions. The deadline to file for 2022 is Monday, March 1st, 2022. Note: 2021 Homestead Exemption application deadline to file was March 1, 2021. If the application is submitted between March 2 and the VAB deadline, the application is considered a Late File Application. Please view the Help File for online filing instructions. Homestead Exemption Required Documents Do You Qualify for Additional Exemptions? AGRICULTURAL CLASSIFICATION 2021 Agricultural Classification applications deadline to file was March 1, 2021. Properties currently receiving the Agricultural Classification benefit will not have to file a new application; however, parcels not under the classification will be required to file an application with the Polk County Property Appraiser office prior to the statutory date of March 1 Statute 193.461 (3) (a). If the application is submitted between March 2 and the VAB deadline, the application is considered a Late File Application. Therefore, a Good Cause Statement must be submitted explaining the reason why the application is late. Please review the Agricultural Classification Guidelines For alternative filing options, please contact one of our 3 office locations; Lakeland, Winter Haven or Bartow (click here for phone numbers).
Limitations on Homestead Property Tax Assessments Effective January 1, 2021, the timeframe during which a property owner may transfer accrued save-our-homes benefits from a prior homestead to a new homestead has been increased from two to three years. This law change is the result of the voters’ approval of Constitutional Amendment 5 in the November 3, 2020, general election.
Ad Valorem Tax Discount for Surviving Spouses of Certain Deceased Veterans Who Had Permanent, Combat-Related Disabilities Effective January 1, 2021, an ad valorem tax discount received by a permanently disabled veteran is eligible to carry over to the veteran’s surviving spouse and can be transferred to a new homestead, if the spouse holds legal or beneficial title to the homestead property, permanently resides on the property and has not remarried. This law change is the result of the voters’ approval of Constitutional Amendment 6 in the November 3, 2020, general election.
Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM) The Notice of Proposed Property Taxes, also called the 'Truth in Millage' (TRIM) Notice is mailed annually in mid-August. The TRIM Notice is also available on our website. The TRIM notice is not a bill. It is an estimate of proposed property taxes based on the proposed tax rates, property value, and exemptions. The TRIM Notice includes the date and time of budgetary public hearings for each taxing authority and certain non-ad valorem assessment information. We would like to thank PGTV (Polk County Government Television) for producing a video to help you better understand your TRIM. Please view the video using the link below: Understanding Your Trim The Understanding Your Trim Video was produced in 2011. There have been no changes to the TRIM form since that time. All information in the video is valid and accurate. Note: The Property Appraiser DOES NOT set tax rates or non-ad valorem fees. If you have questions about your taxes or various assessments, please contact the appropriate authority. Click here for a complete list of TRIM Notice Taxing Authorities and Non-Ad Valorem Assessing Authorities. This information is also available on your TRIM Notice. The Property Appraiser IS responsible for property value. If a property owner disagrees with the Property Appraiser value information or has been denied a classification or exemption, please contact our office to review or discuss the matter with a deputy appraiser. If still dissatisfied, the owner can appeal to the Value Adjustment Board (VAB). The VAB is an independent body consisting of two County Commissioners, one School Board member and two members at large, appointed by the County Commission and School Board. The deadline to file a petition with the VAB is in September. See exact date in the Important Dates / Truth in Millage section of this website on the right side of your screen.
*****BEWARE***** YOU DO NOT NEED TO PAY FOR DEED OR PROPERTY INFORMATION! A number of Polk County residents received letter from First Documents, Record Transfer Services, and others stating the need for homeowners to pay for a "Current Grant Deed and Property Assessment Profile". (SAMPLE LETTERS) The Polk County Property Appraiser's office wants you to know that property records and deeds may be obtained online for little or no cost to you and without having to pay a service. Current Property Deeds and all property/owner information is available on our website; the information is found by using our Property Search feature and locating your property. Once located, you can get a copy of your deed or print a PRC - Property Record Card. See below for additional instructions. How to get a copy of your deed How to print a PRC You can also visit the Polk County Clerk's Official Records Search to receive certified documents. If you have any questions, please contact the Clerk of the Courts or the Property Appraiser's Office.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT A Message from Marsha Faux, Polk County Property Appraiser I am pleased to announce that I have been given the opportunity to continue serving as your Property Appraiser for the next four years. It is my honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Polk County and I cannot thank you enough for your support. I also want to take a moment to thank my incredible staff for their hard work and dedication. We will continue to provide excellent customer service and hope that we exceed your expectations in the years to come. Again, thank you. Marsha Faux, Polk County Property Appraiser
COVID-19 OFFICE SCHEDULE CHANGE AND CONTACT INFORMATION (Last updated 07/20/2020) Per State and Federal Guidelines social distancing is strictly enforced in all Polk County Property Appraiser offices which may increase wait times. • Bartow Office Open to the public Monday – Friday 8 AM to 4:30 PM Bartow • Lakeland Office Open by appointment ONLY. To make an appointment please call (863) 534-4779. • Winter Haven Office Closed to the public starting Monday, July 20, 2020 until further notice. NOTE: The Gil Jones Plaza is a designated COVID-19 Testing site. For the safety of our staff and customers, this office will be closed starting Tuesday, July 21, 2020 until further notice. Customers may conduct business with our office using any of the alternative methods listed below: Visit our website: Look up property information @ www.polkpa.org File for Homestead or other Tax Exemptions @ exemptions.polkpa.org File a Tangible Return @ tangible.polkpa.org By Email: Tax Exemptions paexemptions@polk-county.net Appraisal and Value padataentry@polk-county.net Deed or Ownership pagis@polk-county.net Tangible Personal Property patpp@polk-county.net GIS or Mapping pagis@polk-county.net Americans with Disability Act (ADA) paadacoordinator@polk-county.net All other Questions pahelpdesk@polk-county.net By Mail: 255 N Wilson Ave, Bartow FL 33830 Our goal remains to provide exemplary customer service during this time. We will continue to monitor the situation and update our notices as needed. NOTE: A large portion of our staff will continue to telework in accordance with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). As a result, there are limited number of staff in the office to answer calls. If you have difficulty reaching us via our Main Office number (863-534-4777), please leave a voicemail and a member of our staff will contact you. You may also contact us using the email addresses listed above. Please DO NOT send personal information like SSN, birth dates, etc. via email. Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records. If you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public-records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, you may mail this office at the address above.
COVID-19 NOTICE OF LOBBY CLOSING TO THE PUBLIC Due to the Public Health Emergency in Florida as a result of the CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) and in support of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations, we are implementing social distancing in all Polk County Property Appraiser offices, by temporarily closing our offices to the public. Citizens may still conduct business with our office via the following methods: The Polk County Property Appraiser has migrated a large portion of our staff to telework. As a result, we are experiencing issues receiving and responding to phone calls to our Main Office number at 863-534-4777. Please contact us via one of the email addresses listed below: NOTE: Please DO NOT send personal information like SSN, birth dates, etc. via email. Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records. If you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public-records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, you may mail this office at the address below. Visit our website: Look up property information @ www.polkpa.org File for Homestead or other Tax Exemptions @ exemptions.polkpa.org File a Tangible Return @ tangible.polkpa.org By Email: Tax Exemptions paexemptions@polk-county.net Appraisal and Value padataentry@polk-county.net Deed or Ownership pagis@polk-county.net Tangible Personal Property patpp@polk-county.net GIS or Mapping pagis@polk-county.net Americans with Disability Act (ADA) paadacoordinator@polk-county.net All other Questions pahelpdesk@polk-county.net By Mail: 255 N Wilson Ave, Bartow FL 33830 Our goal remains to provide exemplary customer service during this time. We will continue to monitor the situation and update our notices as needed. For additional information on COVID-19 please see https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
REMINDERS TO FILE FILE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION AND OTHER PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS ONLINE Marsha Faux, Polk County Property Appraiser, urges new homeowners to file for Homestead Exemption for the 2020 tax year. The deadline to file was March 2, 2020; however, we are currently accepting late file applications. If you purchased and moved into your home before January 1, 2020, you may file for a 2020 exemption. If you purchased and moved into your home after January 1, 2020, you may pre-file for a 2021 exemption. If you have purchased a new home and had a previous homestead on another home in Florida, you may be eligible for portability - the transfer of some or all of your old homestead's "Save Our Homes" benefit (the difference between your market and assessed values due to the annual cap on increases). To file online please click HERE For alternative filing options, please contact one of our 3 office locations; Lakeland, Winter Haven or Bartow (click here for phone numbers). Online filing is available for Homestead, Senior (Age 65 and older), Widow/Widower, Disability, and Disable Veteran Exemptions.
EXEMPTIONS - FILE FOR 2020 The Polk County Property Appraiser's Office is now accepting exemption applications for the year 2020. (If you purchased and moved into your home before January 1, 2020, you may now file for a 2020 exemption.) If you have purchased a new home and had a previous homestead on another home in Florida, you may be eligible for portability - the transfer of some or all of your old homestead's "Save Our Homes" benefit (the difference between your market and assessed values due to the annual cap on increases). To file online please click HERE To file in person, visit one of our 3 office locations; Lakeland, Winter Haven or Bartow (click here for addresses). No appointment is necessary, your application will be taken on a first come, first served basis. The deadline to file for Homestead and other exemptions is March 1st, 2020.
***REMINDERS FOR NON-PROFIT / CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS*** January 1 of each year is our assessment date. In order to qualify for exemption on Non-Profit/Charitable organizations, including churches, it is necessary that the organization have legal title to the property on January 1. Our office currently has a few situations where property was in agreement for purchase as early as September this year but, unfortunately, closings and official documents conveying ownership were dated after January 1. These organizations, which by all means qualify for full tax exemptions, now are faced with ad valorem taxes. Organizations applying for exempt status under chapter 196 Florida Statutes which are organized and operated as a non-profit entity are required to provide the information below in addition to a completed application. The application filing period is January 2nd through March 1st each year. After March 1st the application is considered LATE. Please include copies of ALL documentation requested below in a timely and expeditious manner. Additional documents may be required on a case-by-case basis. All attachments outlined on page 2 of the Ad Valorem Tax Exemption Application and Return (DR-504) along with all of the following that apply: A copy of the building plans and property schematics showing the building and property use. For example, for a church the document should indicate which part of the property is being used as a worship center, church offices, fellowship hall, parking lots, etc... If applying on vacant land, you should submit a schematic indicating the uses of all areas of the land. Please provide specific, not general, information. A report describing the nature and extent of all activity performed by the applicant or on the property. A report describing to what extent the property has been made available to groups who perform exempt purposes at a charge that is equal to or less than the cost of providing the facilities for their use. An income and expense statement covering the last 12 months of operation or a copy of the Organization�s most recent Federal tax return. A copy of a valid 501(c) (3), 501(c) (12), or 115(a) Internal Revenue Service determination. A copy of a valid Consumer Exemption Certificate from the Florida Department of Revenue issued pursuant to Chapter 212 Florida Statutes (aka Sales Tax Exemption Certificate). A copy of the Organization�s Articles of Incorporation or Church Charter as well as the Bylaws. Please include a list or inventory of tangible personal property, i.e., Equipment and items other than real estate and licensed vehicles. Applicable licenses for operation/accreditation. Copies of the lease for any portions of the property which are rented or leased. NOTE: If you feel that an item is not applicable please provide a detailed explanation. Writing in �NA� (Not Applicable) is not a sufficient response.
Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM) The Notice of Proposed Property Taxes, also called the 'Truth in Millage' (TRIM) Notice is mailed annually in mid-August. The TRIM Notice is also available on our website. The TRIM notice is not a bill. It is an estimate of proposed property taxes based on the proposed tax rates, property value, and exemptions. The TRIM Notice includes the date and time of budgetary public hearings for each taxing authority and certain non-ad valorem assessment information. We would like to thank PGTV (Polk County Government Television) for producing a video to help you better understand your TRIM. Please view the video using the link below: Understanding Your Trim The Understanding Your Trim Video was produced in 2011. There have been no changes to the TRIM form since that time. All information in the video is valid and accurate. Note: The Property Appraiser DOES NOT set tax rates or non-ad valorem fees. If you have questions about your taxes or various assessments, please contact the appropriate authority. Click here for a complete list of TRIM Notice Taxing Authorities and Non-Ad Valorem Assessing Authorities. This information is also available on your TRIM Notice. The Property Appraiser IS responsible for property value. If a property owner disagrees with the Property Appraiser value information or has been denied a classification or exemption, please contact our office to review or discuss the matter with a deputy appraiser. If still dissatisfied, the owner can appeal to the Value Adjustment Board (VAB). The VAB is an independent body consisting of two County Commissioners, one School Board member and two members at large, appointed by the County Commission and School Board. The deadline to file a petition with the VAB is in September. See exact date in the Important Dates / Truth in Millage section of this website on the right side of your screen.
Tax Abatement for Homestead Properties Damaged by 2016 or 2017 Hurricanes Owners of homestead property throughout Florida may be eligible to receive a tax credit on a portion of their 2019 property taxes. To qualify, the homestead property must have been uninhabitable for at least 30 days due to the damage or destruction resulting from hurricanes Hermine, Matthew, or Irma, and the property owner must have timely paid the taxes originally levied in the applicable year that the damaged occurred (2016/2017). The property owner must submit an Application for Abatement of Taxes for Homestead Residential Improvements, along with documentation showing the property was uninhabitable, to their county Property Appraiser's Office. The deadline to submit applications is March 1, 2019. If approved by the Property Appraiser, the county Tax Collector's Office will issue a tax refund after homeowners pay their 2019 property tax bill. The Polk County Property Appraisers Office is now accepting Applications for Abatement of Taxes for Homestead Residential Improvements (DR-463).
Become part of the PCPA Team! Our office is always looking to grow and better serve the residents of Polk County and you can help us achieve our goal by becoming part of our team. As an equal opportunity employer, offering a great working environment with competitive pay and substantial benefits; the PCPA office can provide you with new opportunities and the start of a rewarding career. Please take a moment and browse our Employment page to see the current openings but remember to check back often as we update postings weekly.
REMINDERS FOR PROPERTY OWNERS FILE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION AND OTHER PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS ONLINE Marsha Faux, Polk County Property Appraiser, urges new homeowners to file for Homestead Exemption for the 2018 tax year. The deadline to file is March 1st. Online filing is available for Homestead, Senior (Age 65 and older), Widow/Widower, Disability, and Disabled Veteran Exemptions. Please view the Help Files for online filing instructions. Click here for more information about property tax exemptions. AGRICULTURAL CLASSIFICATION 2018 Agricultural Classification applications are currently being accepted by the Property Appraiser's Office. The deadline to file is March 1st. The Agricultural Classification guidelines and application is available for download via our website click the link below to access the PDF document. TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY If you own, operate, or have started a business in Polk County, Florida Statute 193.052 requires that all Tangible Personal Property be reported Each year To the Property Appraiser's Office. The deadline to file is April 1st. If you do not file a return or extension by the deadline, you will Not qualify For the $25,000 Tangible Personal Property Exemption. Please view the Help Video For online filing instructions. NOTE : Homestead, other exemptions, And Agricultural Classification (greenbelt) receipt cards will Not be mailed In order To save taxpayer's dollars. These exemptions/classifications will be automatically renewed. To obtain verification Or your exemption Or classification, you may print a Property record card (PIC report) from our website.
Announcements 5 Second Customer Survey Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM) COVID-19 Office Schedule Florida Tax Exemptions for Disabled First Responders (FS 196.102) *****BEWARE***** YOU DO NOT NEED TO PAY FOR DEED OR PROPERTY INFORMATION! Are You Eligible for the Polk County Active Military Combat Duty Grant? Our Office Does Not Release Tax Payer Phone Numbers or Email Addresses Avon Park Air Force Range Training Notification Citrus Health Response Program (CHRP) Assessment Policy For Polk County Abandoned Grove Initiative Warning -- Review your Exemption Status Conservation Easements/Land Exemptions Attention IRS Enrolled Agents, CPA'S and Bookkeepers (TPP Returns) Notice of Change of Ownership or Control Non-Homestead Property (Form DR-430) Tangible Personal Property in Rental Units