Stark County Homestead Exemption: Eligibility and How to Apply

The Stark County Homestead Exemption offers valuable property tax relief to eligible homeowners, particularly seniors and disabled individuals. This program can significantly reduce your tax burden by shielding a portion of your home’s value from taxation.

So how this exemption works, who qualifies, and how to apply can lead to substantial savings on your annual property tax bill. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Stark County Homestead Exemption program.

Eligibility Requirements for Stark County Homestead Exemption

To qualify for the Stark County Homestead Exemption, applicants must meet specific criteria established by Ohio state law. The program primarily benefits seniors and disabled individuals who own and occupy their homes as their primary residence.

Age Requirements

You may qualify for the homestead exemption in Stark County if you are 65 years of age or older. The age requirement is based on your age as of December 31st of the year in which you apply. You must provide proof of age with your application, such as a driver’s license, state ID card, or birth certificate.

Disability Qualifications

If you’re under 65 but permanently and totally disabled, you may still qualify for the disability property tax exemption in Stark County. You’ll need to provide certification of your disability from one of the following:

• Social Security Administration
• Ohio Public Employees Retirement System
• Ohio School Employees Retirement System
• State Teachers Retirement System
• A state or federal agency that determines permanent disability

Income Limits for 2025

As of 2024, the Ohio Homestead Exemption program has an income threshold of $38,600 for new applicants. This limit is adjusted annually based on inflation. “Income” for this purpose means Ohio Adjusted Gross Income (OAGI) of the applicant and spouse, as reported on your Ohio income tax return.

Important Note: If you were already receiving the homestead exemption before 2014 when income limits were introduced, you are grandfathered in regardless of income.

Property Ownership Requirements

To qualify for the Stark County senior property tax exemption, you must:

• Own and occupy your home as your primary residence as of January 1st of the application year
• Have your name on the property deed or be a spouse of the deceased owner who occupied the home
• Maintain the property as your primary place of residence

Application Process for Homestead Exemption

Applying for the Stark County Homestead Exemption involves several straightforward steps. The process requires submitting the correct form and supporting documentation by the annual deadline.

Required Application Form

To apply for the homestead exemption in Stark County, you’ll need to complete Form DTE 105A, the “Homestead Exemption Application Form for Senior Citizens, Disabled Persons, and Surviving Spouses.” This form is available from:

• The Stark County Auditor’s office at 110 Central Plaza South, Suite 220, Canton, OH 44702
• Online at the Stark County Auditor’s website
• By calling 330-451-7323 to request a form by mail

Supporting Documentation

When submitting your application, you’ll need to include:

Application Deadlines

The deadline to file for the Stark County Homestead Exemption is December 31st of the year for which you’re seeking the exemption. However, it’s recommended to apply as early as possible to ensure your application is processed in time to receive benefits for the current tax year.

First-Time Applicants: If you’re applying for the first time, your application will be reviewed by the Stark County Auditor’s office. You’ll receive notification of approval or denial by mail.

Submission Methods

You can submit your completed homestead exemption application through several methods:

• In Person: Visit the Stark County Auditor’s office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM)
• By Mail: Send your completed application and supporting documents to Stark County Auditor, 110 Central Plaza South, Suite 220, Canton, OH 44702
• Online: Some forms may be available for electronic submission through the Auditor’s website

Savings and Benefits of the Homestead Exemption

The Stark County Homestead Exemption can provide significant financial relief to eligible homeowners by reducing their property tax burden. Understanding the potential savings can help you appreciate the value of this program.

How the Exemption Reduces Your Taxes

The homestead exemption works by shielding $25,000 of your home’s market value from property taxation. In Ohio, homes are taxed at 35% of their market value, so this exemption effectively reduces your taxable value by $8,750 ($25,000 × 35%).

“The homestead exemption is one of the most valuable tax relief programs available to Stark County seniors and disabled residents, often saving hundreds of dollars annually on property taxes.

– Stark County Auditor’s Office

Sample Tax Savings Calculations

The exact savings from the Stark County Homestead Exemption depend on your property value and local tax rates. Here are some examples based on different property values and a sample tax rate of 60 mills (0.060):

Home Market Value	Tax Without Exemption	Tax With Exemption	Annual Savings
$100,000	$2,100	$1,575	$525
$150,000	$3,150	$2,625	$525
$200,000	$4,200	$3,675	$525

Calculation method: Tax = (Market Value × 35% – Exemption) × Tax Rate

Additional Benefits

Beyond the direct tax savings, the Stark County Homestead Exemption offers several other advantages:

• Predictable Relief: Once approved, the exemption provides consistent tax reduction year after year
• Protection Against Tax Increases: The exemption helps buffer against the impact of rising property values and new tax levies
• Improved Cash Flow: Reduced tax bills mean more disposable income for other essential expenses
• Aging in Place: The tax savings help many seniors afford to remain in their homes longer

Renewal Process and Reporting Changes

Understanding the renewal process and knowing when to report changes are essential aspects of maintaining your Stark County Homestead Exemption benefits. Here’s what you need to know to ensure continuous tax relief.

Annual Renewal Requirements

Good news for Stark County homeowners: once you’re approved for the homestead exemption, you generally don’t need to reapply each year. The exemption continues automatically as long as you maintain eligibility and your circumstances don’t change.

Exception: If you received the exemption based on disability status, you may need to provide updated certification periodically, depending on the nature of your disability documentation.

When to Report Changes

While annual renewal isn’t typically required, you must report certain changes that could affect your eligibility. Contact the Stark County Auditor’s office if:

• You move to a different primary residence
• The property is no longer your primary residence
• Ownership of the property changes
• Your income exceeds the threshold (for those subject to income limits)
• A qualifying disabled person recovers from their disability
• The death of a qualifying homeowner occurs

Consequences of Unreported Changes

Failing to report changes that affect your eligibility can have serious consequences:

How to Update Your Information

To report changes or update your information for the Stark County Homestead Exemption:

1. Contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7323
2. Explain the nature of the change affecting your eligibility
3. Complete any required forms or documentation
4. Submit the information by mail or in person to the Auditor’s office

Moving to a New Home

If you move to a new home within Stark County, you’ll need to reapply for the homestead exemption for your new property. The exemption doesn’t automatically transfer with you. Submit a new application for your new residence as soon as possible after establishing it as your primary home.

FAQs

What is the current income limit for the Stark County Homestead Exemption?

For 2024, the income limit for new applicants is $38,600 in Ohio Adjusted Gross Income (OAGI). This threshold is adjusted annually for inflation. Homeowners who were receiving the exemption before 2014 are grandfathered in and not subject to income limits.

How do I prove my disability status for the exemption?

To qualify for the disability property tax exemption in Stark County, you must provide certification of permanent and total disability from an approved source such as the Social Security Administration, Ohio Public Employees Retirement System, or a licensed physician. The certification must indicate that your disability is permanent and prevents you from working.

When is the best time to apply for the homestead exemption?

While applications are accepted until December 31st for that tax year, it’s best to apply as early as possible in the calendar year. This ensures your application is processed in time for the current tax cycle. New homeowners should apply soon after establishing their primary residence.

Can the homestead exemption be transferred to a new home?

No, the exemption doesn’t automatically transfer. If you move to a new home, even within Stark County, you must submit a new application for your new property. The exemption is tied to the specific property, not just the homeowner.

What happens to the exemption if the qualifying homeowner passes away?

If a qualifying homeowner passes away, their surviving spouse may continue to receive the exemption if they were at least 59 years old on the date of death and the property remains their primary residence. The surviving spouse must apply to continue receiving the benefit.

Do I need to reapply for the homestead exemption every year?

No, once approved, you generally don’t need to reapply annually. The exemption continues automatically as long as you maintain eligibility. However, you must report any changes that might affect your eligibility, such as a change in primary residence or income that exceeds the threshold.

Apply for Your Stark County Homestead Exemption Today

The Stark County Homestead Exemption offers valuable property tax relief for eligible seniors and disabled homeowners. With potential savings of hundreds of dollars annually, this program can make a significant difference in your household budget and help you maintain your independence.

Don’t miss out on this important tax benefit. If you meet the age, disability, income, and residency requirements, take action today to secure your exemption. The application process is straightforward, and the Stark County Auditor’s office staff is ready to assist you with any questions or concerns.

Remember, once approved, you’ll continue receiving the benefit automatically in future years as long as your eligibility status doesn’t change. This makes the homestead exemption one of the most accessible and valuable tax relief programs available to Stark County residents.