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Ohio Homestead Exemption

Recent property valuations across Ohio have resulted in significant property tax increases for many homeowners. These increases have made it difficult for older adults living on fixed incomes to continue to afford to live in their homes. As a result, it is important for older homeowners to know about Ohio’s Homestead Exemption, which provides a reduction in property taxes for eligible homeowners.

What is the homestead exemption?

The Ohio Homestead Exemption allows low-income older adults and permanently and totally disabled Ohioans to reduce their property tax bills by shielding some of the market value of their homes from taxation.

The exemption, which takes the form of a credit on property tax bills, allows qualifying homeowners to exempt up to $26,200 of the market value of their homes from all local property taxes. For example, through the homestead exemption, a home with a market value of $100,000 is billed as if it is worth $73,800 ($100,000 – $26,200).

What are the qualification guidelines?

  • After January 1, 2014, new applicants must show they have an annual Ohio adjusted gross income less than $38,600 to qualify for the exemption.
  • You must be at least 65 years old during the year in which you are applying, or be permanently and totally disabled, or be a 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.
  • Disabled applicants must include a Certificate of Disability form (DTE 105E) signed by a doctor or State or Federal Agency or have an awards letter from the Social Security Office.
  • You must own and occupy your home as your principal place of residence as of January 1 of the year in which you are applying. 

When are applications due?

Applications are due before December 31 in the year of application. 

Where do I get more details, ask questions and apply for the exemption?

If you feel you meet the guidelines to qualify for the Ohio Homestead Exemption, you will find application forms and more details at the county auditor website in the county where you live. All applications are made through your county auditor’s office. Links to county auditor Homestead Exemption website pages and contact phone number are below.

Older adults who live in one of these counties and who need assistance with the application process can contact Council on Aging at (513) 721-1025 or (937) 584-7200 (Clinton County).

(513) 721-1025