The Lead Off

• Ohio lawmakers have approved a one-time property tax credit for homestead exemption recipients
• Lucas County officials say eligible homeowners could see about $450 in additional savings in 2027
• The credit is funded through a $350 million state revenue surplus

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

According to a press release from the Lucas County Auditor’s Office, 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.

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Increased savings for eligible homeowners

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.

“Since I became Auditor, I have advocated for expanding the Homestead Exemption to provide critical relief for our seniors and other community members in need,” Moline said. “I am grateful that the general assembly took this important step and I urge Governor DeWine to sign this legislation as soon as possible.”

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Who qualifies for the credit

The credit applies to Ohio residents who received either the Homestead Exemption or Enhanced Homestead Exemption in 2026.

Officials say homeowners who are not currently enrolled may still qualify for the 2027 credit if they apply for the exemption by Oct. 3.

The homestead exemption is a statewide property tax reduction program designed for:

• Senior citizens
• Individuals with disabilities
• Surviving spouses of fallen first responders

Homeowners age 65 and older must meet income requirements to qualify.

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Participation across Ohio

According to the auditor’s office, approximately 710,000 Ohio residents currently receive the homestead property tax exemption statewide, including about 24,000 in Lucas County.

Local officials say the program remains one of the state’s primary tools for reducing property tax burdens for vulnerable homeowners.

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Next steps

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.

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The Takeaway

One-time relief approved

Ohio lawmakers approved a one-time property tax credit that will increase savings for homestead exemption recipients beginning in 2027.

Targeted homeowner support

The credit primarily benefits seniors, disabled residents, and surviving spouses who already qualify for the state’s homestead exemption program.

Implementation pending governor’s signature

The measure awaits Gov. Mike DeWine’s approval before being implemented statewide by tax authorities.