Q: Can you share information about TRIM notices?
A: TRIM notices have been mailed and are also available for review on our website. TRIM stands for “Truth in Millage” and is a notice of property taxes. It is basically the final notice of the year to work with the Property Appraiser on any disagreements on values or exemptions. If we can’t come to an agreement, we encourage taxpayers to file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board.
Q: What is the timing of the taxes on the TRIM notice?
A: The property value and exemptions that a property owner sees on the TRIM notice are as of Jan. 1, 2023 and are looking back. They are based on the use, ownership and condition of the property as of Jan. 1, 2023. If you did not own your property on Jan. 1, 2023, this year’s taxes and exemptions are not yours, but are rather those of the previous owner. As of Jan. 1, 2024, all of your caps and exemptions if any will go into effect.
Q: How do you assess property values and taxes?
A: All 67 Property Appraisers in the State of Florida assess property and create their tax roll under very strict state statutes. The oversight is by the Florida Department of Revenue, not the local county government, so each year prior to July 1 we submit the tax roll to the Florida Department of Revenue, where it is evaluated under those standards. The Florida Department of Revenue must approve the tax roll prior to us sending out TRIM notices. Since I’ve been in office, St. Johns County has never not had our tax roll approved on the first round by the Florida Department of Revenue.
Q: What should taxpayers do if there is something on their TRIM that they do not understand?
A: If anyone has questions on TRIM, values, or exemptions, they should contact our office. If you are qualified for an exemption and even if you did not apply for it, the Property Appraiser has discretion up until 25 days after TRIM (this year, that would be Sept. 12) to apply for the exemption. So please contact our office immediately. Especially during TRIM season, we answer our phones and return all messages and emails prior to the end of each business day.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Our office is located at 4030 Lewis Speedway Ste. 203, (904) 827-5500. It is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Also, readers can email me at Eddie@sjcpa.us or call me at (904) 827-5500.
