Jacksonville, FL asked in Real Estate Law and Tax Law for Florida

Q: Keep Florida residency while working in another country for (Canada) 2-3 years?

I'm considering working in Canada for 2-3 years. I would still keep my home in Florida (not rented) including my driver's license, car insurance, bank accounts, brokerage accounts, etc.... all linked to my Florida address. Would I still be legally able to keep Florida as my State of residence? I would not be getting a drivers license in Canada. I can take/not take certain actions if it helps to keep Florida my legal residence if possible. Please advise.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Jane Kim
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Answered
  • Naples, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Why are you asking? For what purpose do you need a FL residence? As a US citizen you must file income tax returns regardless of where you live abroad and for how long. For that reason alone, it is good to maintain a state-side address. You cannot maintain homestead exemption on your FL home because it will not be your primary residence. But you can claim it as one of your residences for some other purpose.

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