Auditor: Homestead exemption tax relief deadline nears

HAMILTON — Butler County Auditor Roger Reynolds has issued a reminder to residents that the deadline to apply for a homestead exemption on property taxes is June. 6.

The Homestead Exemption Act provides a reduction in property taxes to any resident 65 or older or disabled citizen, regardless of income. The exemption can only be used on the individual’s primary residence.

The yearly savings ranges from approximately $300 to $500, depending on the tax millage in each district.

“The homestead exemption provides some welcome tax relief to qualified seniors and permanently and totally disabled Ohio residents,” Reynolds stated in a news release. “I encourage all eligible residents to complete the necessary forms.”

Before 2007, most senior and disabled Ohioans were excluded from the homestead exemption because of income. Now, eligible homeowners, regardless of income, have the opportunity to shield up to $25,000 of the market value of their homestead from property taxation, according to the auditor’s office.

Eligible residents who currently receive the homestead exemption and still live in the same residence need not reapply.

To apply, file the DTE 105A form with the Butler County Auditor’s Office. Those requesting the exemption based on disability also must complete Form DTE 105E and attach it to Form 105A.

The forms are available at the Butler County Auditor’s Office, 130 High St. in Hamilton, or online at www.butlercountyauditor.org. A photo copy of a picture identification for proof of age is required.