Rep. Richardson Introduces Legislation to Provide Property Tax Relief for Seniors and Ohioans with Disabilities

State Representative Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) recently introduced House Bill 261 – legislation that works to provide increased property tax relief for Ohio’s seniors, disabled individuals, and eligible surviving spouses.

“Our Ohio seniors and Ohioans with disabilities contribute to our communities in immense ways,” said Representative Richardson. “By expanding the homestead exemption, we can help alleviate the financial burden of property taxes, allowing Ohioans to remain in their homes and provide communities with dignity and security. Seniors need our help!”

Representative Richardson and her joint-sponsor, Brian Lorenz (R-Powell), introduced this legislation to help lower the taxable value of a qualifying homeowner’s primary residence. Currently, eligible Ohioans can exempt up to $25,000 (adjusted to inflation) of their home’s market value from taxation.

House Bill 261 proposes to double this exemption to $50,000, providing significant tax relief to those who qualify. 

House Bill 261 would make the following changes:

• Increase the standard homestead exemption to $50,000 for eligible homeowners. 
• Apply the increased exemption to both real property taxes and manufactured home taxes.
• Maintain eligibility criteria, including age (65 or older), permanent and total disability, or being a qualifying surviving spouse. 

House Bill 261 awaits a committee assignment.