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Florida has no income tax. To take advantage of this benefit, it’s important to meet the Sunshine State’s residency requirements. You need to update your driver’s license, voter registration and spend most of the year in Florida to establish residency. As an added step, you may also want to talk to a financial advisor about your finances and long-term tax filings.
Establishing Residency to File State Taxes in Florida
Establishing residency in Florida requires specific actions to show that you intend to make it your permanent home. These steps include getting a Florida driver’s license, registering to vote and filing a declaration of domicile with the county clerk. Taking these actions confirms your status as a Florida resident, which is beneficial for tax reasons.
To be recognized as a resident for tax purposes, you need to establish your domicile in Florida. Domicile means the place you plan to permanently live. While you may have several residences, you can only have one domicile.
To set up your domicile in Florida, you should consider buying or renting a home, moving your bank accounts and changing your mailing address. Spending over half the year in Florida also helps strengthen your residency claim. Together, these steps show your dedication to living in Florida as your main home.
How to Achieve State Residency in Florida
Establishing state residency in Florida can offer numerous benefits, including tax advantages and access to in-state tuition rates. However, achieving residency requires meeting specific qualifications and providing the necessary documentation.
This guide outlines five key steps to take and considerations for those looking to make Florida their official home:
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Reside in Florida for 183 days of the year. To establish residency, you must physically reside in Florida. This means spending a significant portion of your time in the state, typically more than six months per year. This physical presence demonstrates your commitment to making Florida your primary home.
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File a declaration of domicile. Filing a declaration of domicile is a formal sworn statement of your intent to make Florida your permanent home. This document is filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where you reside. It serves as legal evidence of your residency intentions.
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Get a Florida driver's license and vehicle registration. Obtaining a Florida driver's license and registering your vehicle in the state are important steps. These actions not only comply with state laws but also reinforce your residency claim. You must obtain vehicle registration within 10 days of establishing residency; you have 30 days to get a Florida driver’s license.
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Register to vote in Florida. While not required, registering to vote in Florida can be another important step in establishing residency. It shows your intent to participate in the civic life of the state.
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Maintain a Florida address. Being able to provide proof of your Florida address is essential. This can include utility bills, a lease agreement or a property deed. These documents help verify your physical presence and intent to reside in the state.