Are you planning to retire soon and looking to settle down in your comfy nest? Do you want to find that ideal place with all amenities while also getting some tax breaks? Then, Central Florida should definitely be on the list of your choices. While is not a novel idea, the place is definitely wooing everyone into having their dream home here as it offers excellent lifestyle options. It is not surprising to note that more than 19.1% of the total population is aged 65 and above.
Central Florida – Why you should consider as a primary residence option
The state enjoys a tax-free status on inheritance, and It is not always the tax benefits that attract the retired population to this place. Let us look at some of the other reasons why this can be a great place to spend your leisurely life
- Affordable – is home to the least expensive properties in the country.
- Community Driven – You can choose from hundreds of retirement communities.
- Quiet and serene – It is away from the hustle and bustle of the city, which makes it a pensioner’s paradise.
- Luxurious – Home to large lakes and the giant Ocala National Forest – you can boast of living by near a National forest and also own lakefront property.
- Beach Lifestyle – Proximity to the Atlantic side beaches and beaches by the Gulf Coast side is an added advantage.
- Excellent Weather – Unlike most US states, Florida is known for its semi-tropical climate, which means your winters are warmer than other US states.
What Do You Need to Prove Your Primary Residence Is in Florida?
Just spending your winter at Florida for a warmer climate will not entitle you to the tax benefits the state offers. You should have to consider your 55+ community in Central Florida as a primary one to be able to get the tax breaks. Let’s take a detailed tour of how you can do this legally. First of all, you will have to prove that you stay in the state for more than half of the year, i.e., a minimum of 183 days in a year.
- Get your voting rights here – You might be required to perform civic duty if you receive summons from the jury.
- File the declaration of Domicile at the local county court.
- Get all your groceries and all the other necessities from local shops. Consider spending your credit card limit during local shopping to provide evidence in case of a tax auditor’s review of credit card records.
- Open a local bank account and keep it active
- Get your car registration and driving license registered in Florida. Also, consider getting a library card form a local library.
While State of Florida has innumerable benefits on social security, the state also is known for its scammers. As the retirees are keen to own properties here, the scams related to that like imposter scams and theft identity are a reality. If you are planning to move into this state, you would have heard about this negative point too. So, keep guard on suspicious deals and people who are bent on trapping you into it.
Scammers are everywhere, but that shouldn’t deter you from moving into Florida. You will have to exercise a little bit of caution that will prevent you getting you into frauds. Follow the steps discussed above to enjoy all the financial benefits along with a laid-back lifestyle.