.......

            Homestead Exemption Program
               Frequently Asked Questions



What is the Homestead Exemption Program?
The Homestead Program provides a tax credit to citizens who are at least 65 years of age
or are permanently and totally disabled. An applicant must own and reside in the home for
which they are applying.



How is the Homestead Exemption Program being expanded?
In 2007, the program was been expanded to include ALL homeowners 65 or older, regardless
of income. Under the new program, the first $25,000 of property value will be exempted from taxation.



Who qualifies for the new Homestead Exemption?
In order to qualify for the new Homestead Exemption, you must meet the following qualifications:
  • You must be at least 65 years old anytime during the calendar year
    in which you apply OR


  • A licensed physician or psychologist or state or federal agency must determine you were
    totally and permanently disabled as of January 1st of the year for which you apply OR


  • You are the surviving spouse of a person who received the Homestead Execmption in the
    previous year, and you were at least 59 years old on the date your spouse died.


  • AND

  • You must have owned and occupied your home as your principal place of residence as of
    January 1 of the year for which you apply. If you own more than one home, your principal
    place of residence is the place you are registered to vote and your place of residence
    for income tax purposes.

When can I apply for the new Homestead Exemption Program?
You can apply for the Homestead Exemption between the first Monday of January through the first
Monday in June.



Will I have to apply every year to receive the Homestead Exemption?
Every year, the Auditor will mail you a Continuing Homestead Exemption Application Form. Only
return the form if there is a change in your status.



How do I apply for the Homestead Exemption Program?
Applications for the Homestead Exemption Program are available as follows:


  • may be requested through the Homestead Hotline 937-225-4341

The form must be mailed or submitted to Karl L. Keith, Homestead Program,
451 W. Third St., Dayton OH 45422.


Can I file electronically?
No. A paper copy of the application bearing your original signature must be filed with the county
auditor of the county in which your home is located. However applications can be downloaded from our
website, signed and sent to us by mail.



How will I know if my application is approved?
You will be notified by letter of the approval or denial of your application on or before October 1st
of the year in which you applied. The Homestead reduction amount will appear on your tax bill.



Will I need to show proof of age?
NO. The application requires you and your spouse to report your ages and dates of birth and is
signed under penalty of perjury. False statements constitute a fourth degree misdemeanor.



Should I wait until my 65th birthday to apply for the Homestead Exemption Program?
You DO NOT need to wait until your birthday to apply. If you turn 65 anytime during the tax year for which
you are applying, you should apply now.



What documentation do I need to provide for proof of disability?
If you are filing due to a total and permanent disability, you will need to provide one of the following:
  • A certificate (found on the back of the application) signed by a physician or psychologist
    licensed to practice medicine in the State of Ohio.


  • A certificate from any sate or federal agency that certifies you as permanently and totally disabled.

What if I receive a larger tax credit under the current program?
Do I have to switch to the new program?

You will automatically receive whichever credit is greater. You will never receive less than the
amount you received under the old program.



What types of "homeownership" are eligible for the Homestead Exemption Program?
All the following ownership conditions qualify as an eligible homeowner for the Homestead Exemption Program:
  • Your name is on the deed

  • Land contracts

  • Survivorship deeds

  • Life estates

  • Living trusts (revocable trusts)
If you have additional questions about what constitutes eligible homeownership, pleas contact us. amount you received under the old program.



Are owners of manufactured homes eligible for the Homestead Exemption Program?
Yes. Owners of manufactured homes are eligible for the Homestead Exemption Program if they meet the same
qualification noted above.





Email the Auditor's Office regarding homestead exemption