A principal residence, also known as a primary residence or main residence, is the dwelling where a person, couple, or family usually lives and spends the majority of their time. A person can only have one principal residence at any given time, although they may share the residence with other people. The following are some key points to consider regarding principal residences:

• Verification: A principal residence can be verified through utility bills, a drivers license, a voter registration card, tax returns, motor vehicle registration, and other relevant factors.

• Ownership or lease: To be considered a principal residence, a person must use, own, or lease the dwelling for a specified duration.

• Tax implications: A principal residence can affect a persons tax filing status and potential tax deductions.

• Exclusion of capital gains: When a principal residence is sold, the seller may qualify for a tax exclusion on the profit.

• Factors to consider: Relevant factors in determining a persons principal residence include the taxpayers place of employment, the principal place of abode of the taxpayers family members, the address listed on the taxpayers federal and state tax returns, drivers license, automobile registration, and voter registration card, and the taxpayers mailing address for bills and correspondence.

• California property tax law: There is no time requirement under California property tax law to qualify a home as a principal residence.

It is important to note that a person cannot legally have two principal residences, even if they split their time equally between two places or in between places while relocating for work.