Ohio legislators have approved a one-time property tax credit for homestead exemption recipients, providing additional tax relief for qualifying homeowners across the state.

Details of the Credit

The credit is funded through a $350 million excess in state revenue and will build on existing property tax savings already available through Ohio’s homestead program. Under current law, homestead exemption recipients in Lucas County save an average of about $550 per year on property taxes. With the new one-time credit, officials estimate those savings will increase by an additional average of $450 in 2027 for eligible homeowners.

Lucas County Auditor Katie Moline said the measure provides additional relief for seniors and other qualifying residents. The credit applies to Ohio residents who received either the Homestead Exemption or Enhanced Homestead Exemption in 2026. Homeowners who are not currently enrolled may still qualify for the 2027 credit if they apply for the exemption by Oct. 3.

Eligibility and Implementation

The homestead exemption is a statewide property tax reduction program designed for homeowners age 65 and older who meet income requirements to qualify. Approximately 710,000 Ohio residents currently receive the homestead property tax exemption statewide, including about 24,000 in Lucas County. The legislation now awaits action by Gov. Mike DeWine. If signed, state agencies and county auditors will begin implementing the one-time credit for eligible homestead recipients ahead of the 2027 tax year.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.