For Immediate Release

Thousands Now Eligible for Homestead Tax Break

Auditor Keith Plans to Sign-up 30,000 New Applicants

Date: July 19, 2007                                        

A provision just signed into law by Governor Ted Strickland will bring property tax relief to thousands of senior homeowners in Montgomery County.  The new law, part of the biennium budget, removes the income requirements from the Homestead Reduction Program, allowing any homeowner age 65 and older to qualify for the tax reduction.

“Removing the income limit opens the door to thousands of homeowners who were ineligible for this program in the past,” said Auditor Karl Keith.  “Together with those already receiving the exemption, we estimate nearly 40,000 Senior homeowners would now qualify for this tax break.”

Keith said his office estimates the average tax reduction will range from just over $400 to about $570 per year.

In order to ensure all eligible seniors sign up before the October 1^st deadline, Keith is conducting an extensive public relations and outreach campaign to spread the word.  

Potential applicants may call the Homestead Hotline at (937) 225-4341 or visit www.mcrealestate.org to download an application.  The Auditor’s office will also be visiting several locations around the area to sign up new applicants.  Applications will soon be available at senior citizen and government centers.

Keith praised the simplicity of the new program, “There are no more complicated income forms to fill out and every homeowner 65 or older is eligible.   My office is committed to reaching out and making sure all Montgomery County Seniors have a chance to sign up for this property tax relief.”

Homestead Exemption Form

Homestead Exemption Form (Manufactured Housing)