Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer in Fort Lauderdale or a long-time resident of Pembroke Pines, understanding property taxes in Broward County is essential. These taxes play a major role in funding schools, public safety, and infrastructure, while also impacting your overall housing costs.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Broward County property taxes so you can stay on top of your responsibilities as a homeowner.
What Exactly Are Property Taxes?
Property taxes are charges levied on real estate owners by local government authorities, including counties, municipalities, and school districts. The funds collected are used to support key community services such as law enforcement, fire protection, public education, and road maintenance.
In Broward County, your property tax bill is made up of contributions to several taxing entities, including the County Commission, your municipality, the local school district, and other special districts that provide local services.
How Much Is Property Tax in Broward County?
In Florida, property is assessed each year by the County Property Appraiser based on its just (market) value as of January 1. The Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office determines the assessed value of your property, which is then multiplied by the millage rate to calculate your total tax amount.
The average effective property tax rate in Broward County is approximately 1.1% of a home’s assessed value, which is near the state average. However, your exact tax rate depends on your city, school district, and other local taxing authorities.
When Are Property Taxes Due in Broward County?
Property taxes in Broward County are billed annually and become payable on November 1 of each year. Homeowners who pay early can take advantage of discounts: 4% in November, 3% in December, 2% in January, and 1% in February.
The full payment is due by March 31 of the following year. Taxes become delinquent on April 1, at which point penalties and interest begin to accrue on the unpaid balance.
When Will You Receive Your Property Tax Bill?
Broward County typically mails property tax bills in early November. If your bill doesn’t arrive, you are still responsible for ensuring timely payment.
You can view your property tax information, confirm your balance, or make a payment online through the Broward County Records, Taxes, and Treasury Division website.
What Happens If You Miss the Broward County Property Tax Due Date?
If your taxes remain unpaid after March 31, they become delinquent on April 1. From that date forward, interest and penalties are added to your balance.
Unpaid taxes may result in a tax certificate sale, where investors can purchase the right to collect your overdue taxes. Continued nonpayment can eventually lead to a tax deed sale, which could put your property ownership at risk. Staying ahead of payment deadlines helps you avoid these costly consequences.
Can I Pay My Broward County Property Tax Online?
Yes. The Broward County Records, Taxes, and Treasury Division provides several payment options for homeowners. You can pay online using a credit card, debit card, or eCheck. Payments can also be made by mail, in person at county tax offices, or through your mortgage escrow account, if applicable.
For more details, visit the Broward County Property Tax Payment Portal.
What Should I Know About My Broward County Property Tax Bill?
Your Broward County property tax bill includes a full breakdown of your home’s assessed and taxable values, the millage rates applied by each taxing body, and the total amount due.
If you do not receive your bill, you can access it online or contact the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office directly at (954) 831-4000 for assistance.
Property Tax Reassessments in Broward County
Florida law requires the County Property Appraiser to reassess all properties each year to ensure that taxable values reflect current market conditions.
However, under the Save Our Homes (SOH) Amendment, annual increases in the assessed value of homesteaded properties are capped at 3% or the rate of inflation (CPI), whichever is lower. This cap helps limit sharp increases in property taxes for primary residences.
If you make significant improvements to your home, such as adding a room or building a pool, or if your property changes ownership, the taxable value may be reassessed outside of the standard cycle to reflect these updates or the new market value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t receive my tax bill?
You are still responsible for paying on time. Visit the Broward County Records, Taxes, and Treasury Division website to view or pay your bill.
Is there a limit on how much property taxes can increase?
Yes. For properties with a Homestead Exemption, the Save Our Homes cap limits annual assessed value increases to 3% or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower.
What happens if I don’t pay my property taxes on time?
Unpaid property taxes become delinquent on April 1 and begin accruing interest and penalties. Continued nonpayment may result in a tax certificate sale, and eventually, a tax deed sale if left unresolved.
Are there exemptions to reduce my property tax bill?
Yes. Common exemptions include the Homestead Exemption, Senior Citizen Exemption, Veterans Exemption, and Widow/Widower Exemption. These exemptions reduce your taxable value, helping lower your overall property tax bill. Visit the Broward County Property Appraiser’s website for more information.
Want to Learn More?
Property taxes represent one of the most significant ongoing costs of homeownership in Broward County. Understanding your tax rates, deadlines, and available exemptions can help you manage these expenses effectively and avoid unexpected surprises.
At JVM Lending, we’re here to help Florida homebuyers and homeowners make sense of these costs as part of their broader financial picture. Whether you’re purchasing a new home in Weston or refinancing in Hollywood, our team is here to guide you.
Contact JVM Lending today at (855) 855-4491 or email hello@jvmlending.com to learn how we can support your homeownership journey in Broward County.
Please Note: The information provided in this blog post is intended for informational and educational purposes only. JVM Lending is not a tax professional or financial advisor. Property tax laws and regulations can be complex and may vary by location and individual circumstances. We strongly recommend consulting with certified tax professionals for personalized advice and guidance on property tax matters. If you’d like a referral to a tax professional or financial advisor, contact us and we’ll happily refer you to one of the trusted professionals in our network.
