Homestead Exemption

Usually, the higher your property value is, the higher your tax bill is. The homestead exemption works by reducing the property value you’re taxed on.

For example, if your home is worth $100,000, with the homestead exemption you could be billed as if it is worth only $75,000. That lower value means you will owe less in property taxes.

Who qualifies

You may qualify for the homestead exemption for your property if:

• You own the home, you live there and it’s your primary residence.
• You are 65 or older and have lower income, or you are the surviving spouse and were at least 59 when your spouse died.
• You have a permanent, total disability.

You may qualify for a greater reduction if:

• You are a disabled veteran.
• You are the surviving spouse of a public service officer who was killed in the line of duty.

Even if you don’t have a mortgage and you own your home outright, you still owe property taxes. The homestead exemption can help you save money by reducing the amount you owe. Read more to learn what to do if you're behind on your property taxes. 

How to apply

To apply for the homestead exemption:

• Complete the application. A homestead exemption application form (“DTE 105A") is available from the Ohio Department of Taxation. Your county may have its own application.
• Attach supporting documents. If you qualify because of a physical or mental disability, you will need to provide written proof signed by your physician.
• Submit your application to your county auditor. You can find your county auditor using the directory from the County Auditors’ Association of Ohio.

If you already have the exemption

You should continue to receive the homestead exemption if you were already approved for it, and you still qualify for it.

To find out if you already have the homestead exemption, contact your county auditor. You can find your county auditor using the directory from the County Auditors’ Association of Ohio.