Palm Beach County Property Appraiser Dorothy Jacks is urging homeowners damaged by recent historic rainfall and widespread flooding to check whether they qualify for property tax relief under Florida law, the office said in a November 5 announcement.
Homes that cannot be lived in for at least 30 consecutive days because of a catastrophic event may qualify for a partial property tax refund. Owners seeking the refund must file Form DR-465, the Application for Catastrophic Event Tax Refund, with supporting documents by March 1, 2027. Property taxes still come due on damaged or destroyed homes, and owners must pay their 2026 taxes by March 31, 2027, to qualify.
The appraiser’s office recommends reporting significant damage early and keeping photos, video, insurance records, utility bills, contractor statements and building permits. Residents displaced by the flooding should also update their mailing addresses with the appraiser’s office and the Palm Beach County Tax Collector.
Florida assesses property based on its condition on January 1. The flood damage will not change 2026 assessments, but unfinished repairs as of January 1, 2027, could affect 2027 values. Homeowners can keep their Homestead Exemption and Save Our Homes benefits while rebuilding if they meet the requirements. Commercial and other non-residential owners are not eligible for the refund, though unrepaired damage will still be reflected in the 2027 assessment.
Details are available at pbcpao.gov/storm-damaged.htm. Owners with substantial structural damage can call 561-355-2866.
