Florida Voters Will Face Tax Credit Referendum November 3
Florida homeowners will decide on a measure to significantly increase the current homestead tax credit amount.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Residential
Live Poll
Should your community increase the homestead tax exemption if it requires cutting local public services?
On November 3, Florida residents will head to the polls to vote on a constitutional amendment that would expand the existing $50,000 homestead tax credit. The measure requires a 60 percent supermajority to pass.
Why it matters
The referendum aims to lower property tax burdens for homeowners by increasing the amount of their home value protected from taxation. The outcome will dictate future tax obligations for households across the state and impact how local governments fund public services.
The proposal seeks to lift the current $50,000 homestead tax credit to $150,000 by January 1, 2027, and to $250,000 the following year. Passage requires a 60 percent affirmative vote.
The players
Steve Vancore
A political consultant who urged local officials to campaign against the property tax referendum.
Byron Donalds
A political figure who plans to support the efforts to reduce property taxes through this referendum.
Heartland League of Cities
An organization of local government leaders involved in the discussions surrounding tax policy and public funding.
The details
If the amendment reaches the 60 percent approval threshold, the homestead tax credit will rise from its current $50,000 baseline to $150,000 at the start of 2027. A second increase to $250,000 would take effect in 2028. Because property taxes are a primary revenue source for local governments, the shift represents a significant change in how jurisdictions fund essential services.
Timeline
August 2026: Polling showed 59 percent support for the referendum.
October 2026: Steve Vancore addressed the Heartland League of Cities regarding the measure.
November 3, 2026: Statewide vote on the property tax referendum.
January 1, 2027: Homestead tax credit would increase to $150,000.
2028: Homestead tax credit would increase to $250,000.
Money Landscape
This referendum marks a significant proposed change to the long-standing Florida homestead tax credit system. The move represents a major adjustment to the state's historical approach to property tax exemptions.
Homeowners should monitor the election results on November 3 to understand how their future property tax assessments may change. Families may wish to consult with a tax professional to evaluate how a higher homestead credit could alter their long-term household budget planning.
The takeaway
The property tax referendum represents a high-stakes shift for Florida household budgets, requiring a 60 percent supermajority to move forward. Homeowners should track the certified election results in their county after the November 3 vote to understand if their local tax liabilities will change.
Further reading
For more on how property tax shifts affect local markets, see our Residential coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Villages-News: News, crime, classifieds, government, events in The Villages, FL.
Live Poll
Should your community increase the homestead tax exemption if it requires cutting local public services?
