Deadline to apply for exemptions is Dec. 31

Montgomery County Auditor Karl Keith is alerting homeowners who may be eligible for the Homestead Exemption Program that the deadline to apply for this year’s exemption is Dec. 31, 2017.

The Homestead Exemption provides seniors age 65 or older, or those permanently and totally disabled, a property tax credit on their annual real estate tax bill. In Montgomery County, the average savings is nearly $700 for those who enroll and qualify. Totally disabled veterans may be eligible for additional benefits.

Only homeowners whose total adjusted gross household income is $31,800 or less are eligible for the exemption. Homeowners are additionally required to own and occupy their residence on Jan. 1, 2017 to be eligible for this year’s tax credit and must be 65 years of age or turn 65 by Dec. 31, 2017.

Keith says homeowners who are unsure if they meet these requirements should call the Auditor’s Homestead Hotline at 937-2254341 for assistance. Homeowners already receiving the benefit do not need to re-apply. There are currently more than 40,000 homeowners in Montgomery County receiving the Homestead Exemption.

Montgomery County residents who believe they may be eligible should visit www.mcauditor.org/ homestead for more information. Homeowners can apply for the exemption online, or a form can be printed from the website and mailed to the Auditor’s Office.