Monroe County Property Appraiser

The Monroe County Property Appraiser’s online search tool provides residents, property owners, and professionals with convenient access to a wide range of property records and assessment data. Whether you’re researching property ownership, reviewing assessed values, checking exemption eligibility, or exploring parcel maps, this resource is designed to make the process easier and more transparent. By using the search and access features, you can quickly locate up-to-date information about real estate in Monroe County. However, while this website offers valuable general data, users should verify all details directly with the official Monroe County Property Appraiser’s Office for certified records, legal purposes, or financial decisions.

Purpose of the Monroe County Property Appraiser

The Monroe County Property Appraiser plays a vital role in ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in the county’s property tax system. The office provides essential services to property owners, buyers, government agencies, and the general public by maintaining accurate records, administering exemptions, and ensuring compliance with Florida law. Below are the key purposes of the Monroe County Property Appraiser:

Providing Fair and Equitable Property Valuation in Monroe County

One of the primary responsibilities of the Property Appraiser is to determine the fair and just value of all real estate and tangible personal property within Monroe County. This ensures that each property owner pays their fair share of property taxes without being over- or under-assessed. Appraisals are conducted using professional standards, market data, and state guidelines to keep valuations accurate and consistent.

Maintaining Monroe County Parcel Maps and Property Records

The Property Appraiser’s Office maintains detailed parcel maps, ownership records, and property descriptions that serve as the official record for taxation and property identification. These maps and records are updated regularly to reflect changes in ownership, subdivisions, new construction, or improvements. Public access to these records helps property owners, buyers, and professionals verify accurate data when making real estate or financial decisions.

Administering Property Tax Exemptions for Homeowners

The Monroe County Property Appraiser is responsible for processing and approving property tax exemptions that help homeowners save money, such as the Florida Homestead Exemption, exemptions for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. By administering these programs fairly, the office ensures that qualified residents receive the benefits they are entitled to under Florida law.

Ensuring Transparency in Monroe County Property Taxes

Transparency is a cornerstone of the Property Appraiser’s mission. By making property records, assessed values, exemptions, and tax-related tools available to the public, the office helps residents understand how their property taxes are calculated. Access to clear and accurate information builds trust between property owners and local government.

Compliance with Florida Statutes and Property Laws

The Monroe County Property Appraiser operates under the authority of the Florida Constitution and Florida Statutes, ensuring that all assessments, exemptions, and recordkeeping comply with state property tax laws. This commitment to legal compliance guarantees that property valuations are conducted consistently and equitably, protecting both property owners and the integrity of Monroe County’s tax system.

Monroe County Property Search & Records Lookup

The Monroe County Property Appraiser provides online tools that make it easier than ever for property owners, buyers, investors, and real estate professionals to access property details, maps, and official tax-related information. Whether you are researching a home, verifying ownership, or checking sales history, the Monroe County property search system offers multiple options to fit your needs.

How to Search Property Records in Monroe County

The Property Appraiser’s website allows users to conduct searches using different identifiers. This flexibility ensures that even if you only know part of the information—such as a last name or street—you can still locate the property record.

Search by Owner Name

You can enter the property owner’s first and/or last name to locate all parcels registered under that individual. This option is particularly helpful for buyers conducting background research or attorneys verifying client ownership.

Search by Parcel Number

Each property in Monroe County is assigned a unique parcel identification number (Parcel ID or Folio Number). If you have this number, you can quickly locate the exact property without confusion, even if multiple properties share similar addresses.

Search by Property Address

Entering a street address (with or without additional details such as city or ZIP code) will pull up property information including ownership, assessed value, exemptions applied, and building details. This is the most commonly used method for homeowners and prospective buyers.

Key Tools for Property Research in Monroe County

Beyond simple searches, the Monroe County Property Appraiser provides several interactive research tools to help you understand a property’s history, value, and land use.

Parcel Viewer & Monroe County GIS Maps

The GIS Mapping System integrates parcel boundaries with aerial views, zoning overlays, and geographic data. Users can visually explore property lines, nearby parcels, flood zones, and land features. This tool is especially useful for developers, surveyors, and real estate agents.

Sales History Lookup

By reviewing property sales history, you can view past transactions, sales dates, and recorded sale prices. This information is valuable for buyers comparing recent market activity and for professionals assessing fair market value trends in Monroe County.

Land Use & Zoning Classification

The property records database includes land use codes and zoning classifications, which are crucial for determining what activities are permitted on a parcel. Buyers, investors, and business owners often rely on this data when planning construction, redevelopment, or land acquisitions.

Accessing the Official Monroe County Property Search Portal

The official Monroe County Property Appraiser’s website is the best place to access verified and up-to-date records. Through the online portal, users can perform searches, view assessment values, download documents, and confirm exemptions. Since these records are maintained by the county, they are considered the official source of truth.

Need Assistance with Property Lookup?

If you encounter difficulties while searching, the Property Appraiser’s office provides helpful guides and customer support. You can contact their office directly for assistance with complex searches, questions about parcel information, or clarification regarding property data. In-person help is also available at their main office and branch locations throughout Monroe County.

Monroe County Homestead Exemption & Tax Benefits

The Homestead Exemption is one of the most valuable property tax benefits available to Monroe County homeowners. It reduces the taxable value of your primary residence, which lowers your annual property tax bill. Beyond the financial savings, the exemption also provides important protections under Florida law. The Monroe County Property Appraiser’s Office makes it straightforward for residents to apply, whether online or in person.

Eligibility Requirements for Homestead Exemption

To qualify for the Homestead Exemption in Monroe County, you must meet the following requirements:

Property Ownership – You must own the property as of January 1st of the tax year for which you are applying.
Permanent Residence – The property must be your permanent residence (primary home), not a vacation home or rental property.
Proof of Florida Residency – You may be asked to provide supporting documents such as a Florida driver’s license, vehicle registration, or voter ID card with the Monroe County address.
Filing Deadline – The application must be submitted by March 1st of the tax year. Late filings may result in denial of exemption for that year.

Certain additional exemptions may apply for seniors, veterans, disabled homeowners, and surviving spouses.

How to Apply Online in Monroe County

The Monroe County Property Appraiser’s Office provides an online filing portal that allows homeowners to apply from home. Through this system, you can:

Create an account or log in as a returning user.
Submit your Homestead Exemption application digitally.
Upload required documents securely.
Receive confirmation of your submission.

This convenient tool helps ensure timely filing and reduces the need for in-person visits.

Benefits of the Homestead Exemption for Homeowners

The Homestead Exemption offers multiple benefits, including:

Property Tax Savings – Up to $50,000 exemption on your home’s assessed value. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes, while the second $25,000 applies to non-school taxes.
Save Our Homes Cap – Annual increases in assessed value are limited to 3% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower, protecting long-term affordability.
Portability – If you move within Florida, you may transfer (or “port”) your tax savings to a new homestead property.
Creditor Protection – Under Florida law, your homestead property is shielded from forced sale by most creditors.

These benefits make it one of the most significant tools for long-term property tax relief and financial stability for Monroe County residents.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Homestead Exemption

Gather Required Documents – Collect your Florida driver’s license, voter ID, vehicle registration, and proof of residence.
Visit the Online Portal – Access the official Monroe County Property Appraiser’s website and navigate to the “Exemptions” section.
Complete the Application – Fill in personal and property details, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Upload Documents – Attach scanned or digital copies of the required proofs of residency and ownership.
Submit Application – Double-check your information, then submit your application online before the March 1st deadline.
Receive Confirmation – Save your confirmation email or reference number for your records.
Monitor Status – Check back online or contact the office to verify that your application was processed successfully.

Helpful Links & Contact Information

Official Monroe County Property Appraiser Website: [Monroe County PA Website]
Homestead Exemption Filing Portal: [Online Filing Link]
Main Office Contact: (305) XXX-XXXX
Email Support: exemptions@monroecountyfl.gov
In-Person Filing: Visit the Property Appraiser’s Office in Key West or one of the branch offices for personal assistance.

Tip: Apply as early as possible to avoid delays and ensure your exemption is in place for the upcoming tax year.

Monroe County Property Tax Roll & Millage Rates

Property taxes in Monroe County are calculated based on the annual tax roll and the millage rates set by local taxing authorities. Understanding how these work together is essential for homeowners, buyers, businesses, and anyone planning their finances. The Monroe County Property Appraiser plays a key role in preparing the tax roll, while local government boards determine millage rates that directly affect your property tax bill.

What Is the Property Tax Roll?

The tax roll is the official listing of all taxable properties in Monroe County, prepared annually by the Property Appraiser’s Office. It includes:

Each property’s assessed value based on fair market analysis.
Applicable exemptions (Homestead, veterans, seniors, etc.).
The taxable value after adjustments.

Once certified, the tax roll is used by the Monroe County Tax Collector to issue property tax bills in November. It ensures every property is fairly and equitably assessed in compliance with Florida law.

Breakdown of Millage Rates in Monroe County

Millage rates represent the amount per $1,000 of a property’s taxable value that is levied in taxes. Monroe County’s property tax bill is made up of multiple millage rates from different taxing authorities, which may include:

Monroe County Commission (general services)
School District of Monroe County
Municipalities (Key West, Marathon, Islamorada, etc.)
Special Districts (fire, mosquito control, water management, etc.)

For example, if your home’s taxable value is $200,000 and the combined millage rate is 10 mills, your tax would be:

$200,000 ÷ 1,000 × 10 = $2,000 in annual property taxes.

How Millage Rates Are Set and Applied

Millage rates are set each year during public budget hearings by the governing authorities of Monroe County and its municipalities. These hearings are required by Florida’s Truth in Millage (TRIM) Law, which ensures transparency. Rates are applied to your taxable property value, as determined by the Property Appraiser, to calculate your annual tax bill.

Tools to Estimate Your Property Taxes in Monroe County

The Monroe County Property Appraiser provides online tax estimator tools to help homeowners and buyers predict potential property tax bills. By inputting your property’s market value, exemptions, and location, the tool generates an estimate based on current millage rates. This can help with:

Budgeting for current homeowners.
Evaluating affordability for potential buyers.
Comparing properties across different municipalities or districts in Monroe County.

Understanding the TRIM Notice (Truth in Millage)

Every August, property owners receive a TRIM Notice (Truth in Millage). This notice is not a bill but an informational document that shows:

Your property’s assessed and taxable values.
All applied exemptions.
The proposed millage rates from each taxing authority.
An estimate of taxes due if those proposed rates are adopted.

The TRIM Notice also provides details about public budget hearings, giving property owners the chance to participate in the decision-making process before rates are finalized.

Key Takeaways

The tax roll lists every property’s assessed and taxable values.
Millage rates are set annually by local taxing bodies and directly affect your property tax bill.
Monroe County’s online tax estimator helps you plan and compare property costs.
The TRIM Notice keeps you informed about proposed rates and provides an opportunity to voice concerns.
Final tax bills are issued in November, with discounts available for early payment.

Understanding Your Property’s Value in Monroe County

Your property tax bill in Monroe County is directly tied to the value assigned to your property by the Monroe County Property Appraiser’s Office. Understanding the differences between market value, assessed value, and taxable value — as well as how appraisals are conducted — helps you know exactly how your taxes are calculated and why they may change each year.

Market Value vs. Assessed Value vs. Taxable Value

Property values are broken down into three important categories:

Market Value

This is the most probable price your property would sell for in an open and competitive market. The Monroe County Property Appraiser determines market value using sales of comparable homes, cost of improvements, income potential (for commercial property), and other economic factors. Market value represents what a willing buyer would pay and a willing seller would accept under normal conditions.

Assessed Value

Once market value is established, the assessed value is calculated based on Florida law. For properties with a Homestead Exemption, assessed value increases are capped by the Save Our Homes Amendment, which limits annual increases to 3% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. This protects homeowners from sudden spikes in property taxes due to rising market values.

Taxable Value

The taxable value is the figure used to calculate your property taxes. It is the assessed value minus any exemptions (Homestead, veteran, senior, disability, agricultural, etc.). Millage rates are then applied to this taxable value to determine your annual property tax bill.

💡 Example:

Market Value: $350,000
Assessed Value (after Save Our Homes cap): $280,000
Taxable Value (after exemptions): $230,000
Final Tax Bill = Taxable Value ÷ 1,000 × millage rate(s).

How Monroe County Property Appraisals Are Determined

The Property Appraiser’s Office uses a combination of methods to ensure fair and equitable assessments across all properties:

Sales Comparison Approach – Reviewing recent sales of similar properties in the area.
Cost Approach – Estimating the replacement cost of the property minus depreciation.
Income Approach – For rental and commercial properties, analyzing potential income and expenses.
Physical Inspections – Verifying property features, improvements, and condition.
GIS & Aerial Mapping Tools – Ensuring accuracy of land size, structures, and boundaries.

All of these factors are considered to ensure valuations are consistent and comply with Florida Statutes.

Frequency of Property Assessments

In Monroe County, as in all of Florida, property values are reassessed annually as of January 1st. Even if you don’t make changes to your property, the value may adjust based on real estate market activity, economic conditions, or neighborhood trends. TRIM (Truth in Millage) notices mailed each August reflect these updated values.

Why Property Values Change from Year to Year

Property values may increase or decrease due to:

Local market conditions (demand for homes in Monroe County can fluctuate).
Property improvements (remodeling, additions, or new construction).
Economic trends (interest rates, inflation, regional growth).
Damage or deterioration (storms, flooding, or depreciation of structures).
Legislative changes (new exemptions or adjustments to existing property tax laws).

Summary

Market value = What your property would sell for.
Assessed value = Adjusted market value with legal caps applied.
Taxable value = Assessed value minus exemptions.
Monroe County reassesses property values every year as of January 1st.
Property taxes can change due to market trends, exemptions, and millage rates.

By understanding these distinctions, homeowners can better interpret their TRIM notices, anticipate property tax changes, and make informed financial decisions.

Monroe County GIS Maps & Parcel Data

The Monroe County Property Appraiser’s GIS (Geographic Information System) maps and parcel data tools give property owners, buyers, real estate professionals, and developers a powerful way to view detailed information about land and property boundaries. These maps combine geographic layers with property data, making it easier to analyze parcels, zoning, land use, and other critical property features.

How GIS Maps Help Property Owners and Investors

GIS maps are more than just visual tools—they provide actionable insights. Property owners can verify lot dimensions, boundaries, and surrounding land uses, while investors can use these maps to identify opportunities and make better-informed decisions. Some common benefits include:

Boundary Verification – Check property lines before buying or selling.
Land Use Planning – See how zoning restrictions may impact future use.
Investment Research – Compare parcels, nearby sales, and zoning classifications.
Environmental Awareness – Review flood zones, wetlands, and other environmental overlays.
Development Potential – Analyze access to utilities, roadways, and neighboring land use.

How to Use the Monroe County GIS Mapping System

The Monroe County GIS system provides several tools for property research:

Search by Property Information – Enter an owner’s name, parcel number, or property address to locate a parcel.
Interactive Layers – View zoning, land use, flood zones, school districts, and other relevant data.
Parcel Reports – Generate reports that include ownership history, assessed values, exemptions, and tax information.
Aerial Views – Compare satellite imagery with official parcel lines to confirm property features.
Measurement Tools – Estimate distances, acreage, or square footage directly on the map.

The system is designed to be user-friendly, but detailed enough to serve professionals such as surveyors, developers, and attorneys.

Accessing the Monroe County GIS Maps Online

The GIS mapping tool is available through the official Monroe County Property Appraiser’s website. Users can access it online at any time without charge. Some records may be limited to public viewing for general reference, while certified documents and surveys must be requested directly from the Property Appraiser’s Office.

💡 Pro Tip: Always use GIS maps as a reference tool, not a replacement for a professional land survey. For legal purposes such as boundary disputes or development approval, you should rely on official surveys and certified documents.

Tangible Personal Property (TPP) in Monroe County

Tangible Personal Property (TPP) is a unique category of property that applies primarily to businesses, rental property owners, and certain individuals in Monroe County. Unlike real estate, TPP refers to assets that are used for commercial purposes and are subject to annual reporting requirements. Understanding what TPP is, who must file, and how to meet deadlines can help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties.

What Is Tangible Personal Property?

Tangible Personal Property includes physical, movable assets used in a business or income-producing activity. Examples include:

Furniture, fixtures, and office equipment
Computers, printers, and electronic devices
Machinery, tools, and heavy equipment
Rental property furnishings (e.g., in vacation homes or apartments)
Leased or loaned equipment used in daily operations

💡 Important: Household goods for personal use are not considered TPP. Only assets tied to a business, rental, or commercial activity must be reported.

Who Must File a Tangible Personal Property Return in Monroe County?

In Monroe County, all businesses and rental property owners are required to file a TPP return annually with the Property Appraiser’s Office. This includes:

Corporations, LLCs, and partnerships
Sole proprietors operating from commercial or home offices
Owners of furnished rental units, including short-term vacation rentals
Businesses that lease or rent equipment within the county

Even if your business owns property valued under the $25,000 exemption threshold, you must still file an initial return to qualify for the exemption.

When and How to File Your TPP Return Online

Deadline: The annual filing deadline is April 1st. Returns filed after this date are subject to penalties.
Filing Method: The Monroe County Property Appraiser provides an online TPP filing portal where businesses can securely submit their returns.
Steps to File:
1. Access the online TPP portal through the official Monroe County Property Appraiser’s website.
2. Log in or register with your business account information.
3. Enter details of your business assets, including acquisition costs and purchase dates.
4. Apply the $25,000 TPP exemption if eligible.
5. Review your information and submit electronically.
6. Save a copy of your confirmation for records.

💡 Tip: Filing early gives you time to correct mistakes and reduces the risk of late penalties.

Penalties and Consequences of Late or Non-Filing

Failing to file a TPP return on time can result in significant financial consequences:

Late Filing Penalties: A 5% penalty per month, up to 25% of the total tax due.
Non-Filing Penalties: A 25% penalty is automatically applied if no return is filed.
Estimated Assessments: If you do not file, the Property Appraiser may estimate your business assets, which could result in higher assessments and taxes.

These penalties are enforced under Florida law and cannot be waived simply due to oversight.

Tips and Resources for TPP Filers

To stay compliant and make filing easier:

Keep detailed records of all business equipment and asset purchases.
Conduct an inventory review before January 1st each year.
Always file early to allow time for corrections.
If your business has closed or relocated, notify the Property Appraiser’s Office in writing.
Use the Monroe County Property Appraiser’s online guides and FAQs for additional filing assistance.

📌 Resource: Visit the official Monroe County Property Appraiser’s website for TPP forms, instructions, and access to the online filing portal.

Transparency, Public Access & Legal Compliance in Monroe County

The Monroe County Property Appraiser’s Office is dedicated to maintaining public trust through open access to information, compliance with Florida law, and transparent operations. Florida is known for its Sunshine Laws, which guarantee residents access to public records and government proceedings. By following these principles, the Property Appraiser ensures that property owners, businesses, and citizens have confidence in how property values, exemptions, and tax rolls are handled.

Open Records Policy in Monroe County

Florida’s Constitution and Statutes mandate that property records are public information. This means:

Anyone can access ownership records, property values, parcel maps, and exemption data.
Records are available both online through the Property Appraiser’s website and in person at county offices.
Certain sensitive details (like Social Security numbers or personal financial data) are redacted to protect individual privacy while maintaining transparency.

This open-access policy ensures accountability and allows citizens to review how assessments are conducted.

How to Request Public Property Records

While much of the information is readily available online, some records may need to be requested formally. To obtain certified or detailed records in Monroe County, you can:

Use the online property search tool to look up general ownership, value, and tax details.
Submit a public records request via email, mail, or the official request form on the Property Appraiser’s website.
Visit the Property Appraiser’s Office in person to request physical copies or certified documents.

Note: Fees may apply for certified copies or large-volume requests. Always verify which records you need before making a request to save time and cost.

Board Meetings, Budgets & Public Notices

The Property Appraiser’s Office works closely with other Monroe County agencies, and all meetings where property tax decisions are discussed must be open to the public. This includes:

Budget hearings for setting millage rates.
Value Adjustment Board (VAB) hearings for property tax appeals.
Announcements of new exemptions or legislative changes affecting property owners.

Public notices are typically mailed (via TRIM notices), posted on the official website, and sometimes published in local newspapers, giving residents an opportunity to attend and participate.

Performance Audits and Legal Compliance

The Monroe County Property Appraiser is subject to state oversight, audits, and compliance checks to ensure fair and accurate practices. These reviews include:

Annual performance audits by independent or state agencies to verify accuracy and efficiency.
Legal compliance checks with Florida Statutes (Chapters 192–197 for property taxes and exemptions).
Internal quality control to prevent errors in valuation, exemptions, and public record handling.

This structured oversight process ensures that the Property Appraiser’s Office remains fair, unbiased, and accountable to Monroe County residents.

✅ Summary: Monroe County promotes transparency by providing open access to property records, ensuring public participation in budget hearings, and complying with state laws and audits. Property owners can feel confident knowing that assessments and exemptions are handled with fairness, accuracy, and legal accountability.

Key Dates & Deadlines in Monroe County

Staying informed about important property tax dates ensures you don’t miss opportunities for exemptions, avoid penalties, and maintain compliance with Monroe County property tax regulations. Below is a breakdown of the most critical deadlines property owners should mark on their calendars each year.

January 1 – Property Value Assessment Date

Every year, January 1 is the official date used by the Monroe County Property Appraiser to determine a property’s status and value.
This means the condition, ownership, and exemption eligibility of the property on January 1 will guide how the property is assessed for that tax year.
Any improvements, new construction, or ownership changes made after this date will not affect the current year’s assessment but will apply to the following year.

Tip: If you purchase a home in February or later, you may not receive the Homestead Exemption until the next tax year.

March 1 – Homestead Exemption Application Deadline

March 1 is the final deadline for homeowners to apply for the Florida Homestead Exemption in Monroe County.
This exemption can reduce the taxable value of your property by up to $50,000 and provides Save Our Homes (SOH) benefits that limit annual increases in assessed value.
Missing this deadline typically means you lose the exemption for that tax year, though late applications may be accepted in limited hardship cases.

Reminder: Other exemptions, such as senior, disability, veteran, or widow/widower exemptions, often share this same deadline.

April 1 – Tangible Personal Property (TPP) Return Deadline

Businesses and certain property owners in Monroe County must file a Tangible Personal Property (TPP) return by April 1.
TPP includes business equipment, furniture, machinery, and other assets used for commercial purposes.
Failing to file on time can lead to penalties, interest charges, and the loss of the $25,000 TPP exemption.

Action Step: Even small businesses must file a return if they own taxable business assets.

August – TRIM Notices Sent to Monroe County Property Owners

Each year in August, the Property Appraiser mails out TRIM notices (Truth in Millage).
A TRIM notice is not a tax bill but an estimate showing:
- Assessed value of your property.
- Proposed millage rates (set by taxing authorities).
- An estimated property tax amount.
This notice also provides instructions for how to appeal or question your property’s assessment.

Important: Review your TRIM notice carefully — if you disagree with your property’s assessed value, you must act before the appeal deadline.

Property Assessment Appeals & Protest Timelines

After TRIM notices are mailed in August, property owners have a limited window (usually 25 days) to file an appeal with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) if they disagree with their assessment.
The VAB is an independent panel that hears property tax disputes. Filing within the timeframe is critical — missed deadlines generally mean you must wait until the next year.
To formal appeals, owners can also schedule an informal review with the Property Appraiser’s Office before filing with the VAB.

Final Note: Deadlines are firm under Florida law. Mark your calendar in advance to protect your rights and exemptions.

Contact the Monroe County Property Appraiser

Reaching the Monroe County Property Appraiser’s Office is simple, whether you prefer to visit in person, call, or use online services. The office provides multiple ways for property owners, businesses, and professionals to connect and receive assistance.

Office Location & Google Maps Link

The Monroe County Property Appraiser’s main office is located in Key West, with branch offices in Marathon and Plantation Key for convenience. These offices serve residents throughout the Florida Keys.

Main Office (Key West):
1100 Simonton Street, Key West, FL 33040
Marathon Branch:
2798 Overseas Highway, Suite 310, Marathon, FL 33050
Plantation Key Branch:
88700 Overseas Highway, Suite 130, Plantation Key, FL 33070

📍 View on Google Maps

Phone, Fax, and Email Contact Options

Property owners can reach the office by phone, fax, or email, depending on their needs:

Main Phone Line (Key West): (305) 292-3420
Marathon Office Phone: (305) 289-2550
Plantation Key Office Phone: (305) 852-7153
Fax: (305) 292-3501
General Email Inquiries: info@monroepa.com (example — replace with official contact if needed)

Phone lines are staffed by knowledgeable representatives who can direct you to the correct department for exemptions, property valuation questions, TPP filing, or technical support.

Hours of Operation for Monroe County Offices

All offices generally operate on a standard weekday schedule:

Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, and official Monroe County holidays

Tip: For faster service, try calling in the morning hours or using the online portal to submit forms before visiting in person.

Online Support & Contact Forms

The Property Appraiser’s official website provides an online contact form for general inquiries, exemption assistance, and records requests. This option is ideal for residents who cannot visit in person or prefer written communication.

Online Contact Form: Available on the official Monroe County Property Appraiser website.
Support Options Include:
- Submitting a records request.
- Asking exemption-related questions.
- Reporting incorrect or outdated property information.
- Technical help for the property search or GIS mapping tool.

Using the online system also provides a record of your inquiry and allows staff to follow up with accurate information.

FAQ’s – Monroe County Property Appraiser

The Monroe County Property Appraiser’s Office provides a wide range of resources and tools to help property owners understand their property taxes, exemptions, and assessments. The following frequently asked questions address common concerns and provide guidance on navigating property-related processes in Monroe County.

How do I apply for a Homestead Exemption in Monroe County?

To apply for the Florida Homestead Exemption, which can reduce your property’s taxable value:

Check Eligibility: You must own and occupy the property as your permanent residence as of January 1st of the tax year.
Gather Required Documents: Typically, this includes proof of ownership (deed), a valid Florida driver’s license or ID, and proof of residency.
Submit Your Application: Applications can be submitted online via the Monroe County Property Appraiser’s website, or in person at one of the offices in Key West, Marathon, or Plantation Key.
Deadline: The annual deadline is March 1. Late applications may not be accepted, except in limited hardship cases.

Tip: Applying early ensures you receive the exemption for the current tax year and benefits from the Save Our Homes cap, which limits annual increases in assessed value.

Why did my property value increase this year?

Property values may rise due to several factors:

Market Trends: Local real estate demand, sales of comparable properties, and economic conditions in the Florida Keys.
Property Improvements: Renovations, additions, or new construction can increase value.
Reassessments: The Property Appraiser reviews and updates values annually as of January 1.
Exemptions Adjustments: Changes in Homestead, TPP, or other exemptions may affect taxable value.

Review your TRIM notice carefully to see the breakdown of assessed, taxable, and market values, and compare it to previous years to understand specific changes.

How can I find my Monroe County parcel ID?

The parcel ID is a unique number assigned to each property in Monroe County for tax and record-keeping purposes. You can locate it by:

Using the Monroe County Property Appraiser’s online property search tool.
Searching by property address, owner name, or parcel number.
Accessing GIS maps to view parcel boundaries along with the assigned parcel ID.

Tip: Always use the official Monroe County Property Appraiser website to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.

What are the current Monroe County millage rates?

Millage rates determine the amount of property tax owed per $1,000 of taxable value. Rates are set annually by local taxing authorities and can vary depending on location and applicable districts (e.g., school board, city, county, fire, or special districts).

TRIM notices mailed in August provide the exact millage rate applied to your property.
Millage rates are publicly available on the Property Appraiser’s website and updated annually for transparency.
Understanding the rates can help you estimate your annual property taxes using the Monroe County Tax Estimator tool.

How do I appeal my property’s assessed value in Monroe County?

If you believe your property has been overvalued:

Review Your Assessment: Compare your property’s market value to similar properties in the area.
Contact the Property Appraiser’s Office: Request an informal review to discuss the assessed value and provide supporting documentation.
File a Formal Appeal: Submit an appeal to the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) within the timeframe indicated on your TRIM notice (usually 25 days after mailing).
Provide Evidence: Include appraisals, photographs, or other documentation supporting your claim.
Attend a Hearing: The VAB will review your evidence and make a determination.

Tip: Acting promptly after receiving your TRIM notice is critical, as missed deadlines generally cannot be extended.