What is the Homestead Exemption?
The Homestead Exemption is a property tax reduction program offered by the state of Ohio. It provides eligible homeowners with a reduction in the taxable value of their primary residence, resulting in lower property taxes.
Who is eligible for the Homestead Exemption?
You may qualify if:
- You are 65 or older during the year of application, OR
- You are permanently and totally disabled, OR
- You are the surviving spouse of a qualifying individual and were at least 59 years old when they passed
- You own and occupy the home as your primary residence as of January 1
- Your Ohio Adjusted Gross Income (OAGI) is below the annual limit (e.g., $38,600 for 2024)
What is the income limit to qualify?
The income limit changes annually with inflation. For 2024, the limit was $38,600 OAGI. Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify regardless of income if applying for the enhanced exemption.
What is the Enhanced Homestead Exemption?
This version provides a larger reduction in taxable home value and is available to:
- 100% disabled veterans
- Surviving spouses of public service officers killed in the line of duty
No income test is required for the enhanced exemption.
How much is the reduction?
| County | Standard Reduction | Enhanced Reduction |
|---|---|---|
| Montgomery | $28,000 | Varies |
| Greene | $26,200 | $52,300 |
| Warren | $25,000 | Varies |
| Miami | $28,000 | $56,000 |
| Clark | $28,000 | $56,000 |
How do I apply?
- Complete DTE Form 105A
- If applying due to disability, include DTE Form 105E
- Submit to your county auditor’s office by December 31
Is this a one-time application?
Once approved, you do not need to reapply each year unless your residency or eligibility changes. Some counties may request periodic income verification.
How do I know if I’m already receiving the Homestead Exemption?
Check your most recent property tax bill or contact your local county auditor’s office.
County-Specific Differences
| Feature | Montgomery | Greene | Warren | Miami | Clark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Reduction | $28,000 | $26,200 | $25,000 | $28,000 | $28,000 |
| Enhanced Reduction | Varies | $52,300 | Varies | $56,000 | $56,000 |
| Application Deadline | Dec 31 | Dec 31 | Dec 31 | Dec 31 | Dec 31 |
| Contact | (937) 225-4341 | (937) 562-5622 | (513) 695-1235 | (937) 440-5925 | (937) 521-1862 |
| Website | Montgomery | Greene | Warren | Miami | Clark |
Final Thoughts
The Homestead Exemption can provide significant property tax savings to eligible Ohio residents. Whether you're aging into eligibility or helping a loved one apply, knowing the local differences and deadlines can make the process easier.
Need Help Navigating the Homestead Exemption?
Contact Senior Real Estate Specialists Don & Cyndi Shurts with Keller Williams Advisors Realty. With decades of experience serving seniors and homeowners across Montgomery, Greene, Warren, Miami, and Clark Counties, we’re here to guide you through every step of your home journey.
📞 Call us at 937-241-2124 or 937-604-5194
🌐 Visit us at MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com