Many people decide they want to trade the cold winters in the northern states for the sunny, warmer winters of Florida and become permanent residents. Are you one of them? Although Florida welcomes all newcomers, many people do not realize or understand the need to detach residency from the state of departure.
If you are thinking of becoming a Florida resident, ask yourself these questions:
Am I ready to spend less time in my home state than I do now?
Many other states declare you a resident if you are physically present in their state for more than half the year. If you are not ready or to significantly reduce the number of days you spend in your current state of residence, you may not be ready to change your residency.
Am I ready to sell my non-Florida home?
An argument that some states (including many New England states) often use to claim a person is a resident, is the continued ownership of real estate, particularly their personal residence in that state.
Am I ready to change my driver’s license, auto registration and other forms of personal identification?
In addition to these documents, voter registration, income tax returns, and other legal documents need to reflect Florida as your home state.
Has my estate plan and other legal documents been reviewed by a Florida attorney?
It’s a good idea to have someone who practices within Florida review the plan to determine what, if any changes might be necessary in order to allow the documents to work effectively under Florida law.
The warm waters and blue skies are waiting for you and DSM Law wants it to be an enjoyable and smooth life transition. Contact us with any questions about the necessary steps to take in becoming a permanent Florida resident.
Rosanne M. Duane, Esq., LL.M
About Rosanne:
Rosanne M. Duane is a senior partner at DSM Law , a solutions-oriented estate planning law firm. She has practiced law for over 20 years in Palm Beach County, Florida, and was selected 2017 Florida Super Lawyer for outstanding service, professional achievement and peer recognition. This is Roseanne’s third Florida Super Lawyer recognition in five years.
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