The Homestead Exemption for residential real estate in Ohio has been revised effective July 2 of 2007.  It is hoped that this sheet will answer most questions that taxpayers may have on the subject at this time.

Homeowners age 65 and over, the surviving spouse of an eligible person, and homeowners who are “totally and permanently disabled”.

Q.  What types of properties are eligible for the Homestead Exemption?

Single family homes, mobile/manufactured homes, condominiums, and certain other specialized ownership types occupied as the PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE of the owner.

In general, a person whose name appears on the deed, a purchaser under a land contract, a person with a life estate, or a person with control under a revocable living trust.

Q.  How much will my taxes be reduced by the Homestead Exemption?

The exemption is based upon a reduction of $25,000 in the “true value” appraisal of the home.
      Depending upon the tax rate in your district, that would normally result in a savings of $250 to $450
      per year ($125 to $225 per half) in Shelby County.

Q.  How do I apply for the Homestead Exemption?

You need to file a “Homestead Exemption Application” (Form #DTE105A)

Q. Do I need to apply again if I already received the Homestead Exemption on my 2007 tax bill?

No.  Taxpayers already on the program do NOT need to reapply.  You will automatically be considered eligible for the program.

Q.  How do I know if I’m currently receiving the Homestead Exemption?

The reduction is plainly marked on your regular tax statement.  If the “Homestead” box is blank, you are
           not currently on the program.

Q.  What if my benefit from the old plan is higher than my benefit under the new formula?

The benefit will be the amount you received on your 2007 tax bill OR the amount available under the new formula, whichever is HIGHER.

Q.  When must my application be filed with the County Auditor?

For this year (2007) only, you may file until October 1st.  In subsequent years, the application must be  received by the County Auditor by the first Monday of June.

Q.  Do I have to disclose my income?
No.  Income is no longer a factor in determining eligibility for the Homestead Exemption.

Q.  How do I show proof of my age?

At the discretion of the County Auditor, you may be asked for appropriate I.D. information.  We  have waived this requirement for the 2007 enrollment period beginning July 2nd.  You must,      however, report your age and date of birth on the Homestead Exemption Application.  Providing false information on that application would be considered a perjury and subject to prosecution.  Also, you would be barred from the program for three years thereafter and subject to repayment of any wrongfully claimed benefits plus interest on the benefits improperly received.

How will I know if my application has been approved?

For approved applications, the exemption amount and tax reduction will be noted on the tax bill you  receive in January of the year following the one in which you make application.  If your application
is rejected for any reason, you will receive written notification from the County Auditor by  November 1st of the year in which your application is filed.  If you wish to appeal the decision to            decline your application you may obtain a form from the County Auditor to do so.

Q.  When will I see the reductions on my tax bill?

For valid applications filed prior to the Oct. 1st deadline, the reduction will first appear on the tax billing due in February of 2008.

Q.  Do I have to file a new application every year?

Once you qualify for the exemption, you will receive a form from the County Auditor every year.  You will only need to file that form if there is a change in the owner’s eligibility status or in ownership of
the property.

Q.  What do I need to do if I am filing as a disabled person less than 65 years of age?

You will need to get the certification of a medical doctor or psychologist.  Requirements for designation (and the certification statement) can be found on the back side of the Homestead Exemption Application form.

Q.  What if I don’t live in Ohio for the whole year?

You must be a legal resident of Ohio as of January 1st in order to file for Homestead Exemption in that year.

Q.  What if I die and my surviving spouse is less than 65 years of age?
If your surviving spouse is at least 59 years of age on the date of your death, he/she is eligible to continue receiving the homestead exemption.  The surviving spouse should report the change of  status before the first Monday of June.

Q.  Will this discount on my tax bill reduce the revenue of my local school district or other local taxing authority?

No.  This program is to be funded from securitizing the State’s settlement with tobacco companies. From those funds, the State is rebating the Homestead deductions to the local taxing districts.

Q.  Where can I get forms or additional information concerning the Homestead Exemption?

You may check on the web at www.tax.ohio.gov or you may call or visit us at the address shown above.