The homestead exemption dates back to 1971 and offers eligible individuals a chance to protect their “homestead” — a dwelling and up to one additional acre — from property taxation.
The homestead exemption offers property tax relief to eligible senior citizens and disabled Ohioans. It provides the opportunity for homeowners to exempt up to $25,000 of the market value of their home from property taxes, regardless of income. Therefore, a home with a market value of $100,000 would be taxed as if it is worth $75,000.
In today’s difficult economic climate, this exemption helps eligible homeowners save an average of about $400 annually.
Seniors and disabled Ohioans must apply with their local county auditor in order to take advantage of the homestead exemption. During 2010, county auditors will be accepting applications from January 5 through June 7.
For more information about eligibility or how to apply for the exemption, you may contact your local county auditor’s office, or the Ohio Department of Taxation at (800) 282-1780.
Any Ohio homeowner is eligible if he or she is:
- At least 65 years old or turns 65 in the year they apply
- Totally and permanently disabled as of January 1 of the year they apply, as certified by a licensed physician, psychologist, or a state or federal agency
- Is the surviving spouse of a person who was receiving the previous homestead exemption at the time of death and where the surviving spouse was at least 59 years old on the date of death
