How to Get Paid to Protect Your Florida Home

If you're a Florida homeowner thinking about upgrading your windows and doors to better withstand hurricanes, or to make your home more energy efficient, there’s good news: You don’t have to pay for it all yourself.

Between state grants, federal tax credits, and insurance discounts, many homeowners can dramatically cut the cost of these upgrades or even get most of them paid for.

But it’s not just about savings. It’s about peace of mind. In a storm-prone state like Florida, impact-resistant windows and doors aren’t just a smart investment; they’re a powerful way to help keep your family, pets, and property safe when it matters most.

State Grants: Up to $10,000 for Hurricane Protection Florida’s My Safe Florida Home program is one of the most generous in the country. The state offers up to $10,000 in matching funds to help install hurricane-resistant windows, doors, and other protective upgrades.

To qualify, your home must:

• Be a single-family residence with a homestead exemption

• Be insured for less than $700,000

• Be located in a wind-borne debris region (which includes most of coastal Florida)

The process begins with a free wind-mitigation inspection to assess your home’s current vulnerabilities. After that, you can apply for matching funds—typically the state pays $2 for every $1 you spend. And if you’re a low-income senior, you may qualify for the full amount with no out-of-pocket match required.

But don’t wait—funding is limited and often goes quickly.

Federal Tax Credits: Save 30% on Energy Efficiency
Under the Inflation Reduction Act, you can also get a 30% federal tax credit for upgrading to ENERGY STAR–certified windows and doors—up to $600 for windows and $500 for doors, with a $1,200 annual cap.

To qualify:

• Products must meet ENERGY STAR Most Efficient standards

• You must install the upgrades in your primary residence

• Keep your receipts and labels for IRS Form 5695 These improvements not only cut your utility bills, they help keep indoor temperatures more stable during power outages or extreme weather.

Insurance Discounts: Lower Premiums for Safer Homes
Once your impact windows and doors are installed, you can also qualify for big insurance discounts—sometimes 30% to 50% off your windstorm coverage.

You’ll need to schedule a wind mitigation inspection and submit the report to your insurer, but many homeowners recoup the cost within the first year through lower premiums.

The Bottom Line
By combining state grants, federal tax credits, and insurance savings, Florida homeowners can make serious upgrades for far less than expected.

And while the financial perks are great, the real value is knowing you’ve done everything you can to protect the people and pets you love—from shattered glass, flying debris, and the stress of every incoming storm.

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