If your property in Trumbull County, Ohio, has been damaged or destroyed, you might get a tax break. You can file the DTE 26 form to lower your property’s taxable value. This form is available online through the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office. It helps property owners get a tax reduction for damage from storms, fires, or floods.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the DTE 26 form. We’ll talk about how to file it, who can file, and what you need to do to make sure your application is approved.
What Is the DTE 26 Form?
The DTE 26 form is a legal document in Ohio. It lets property owners lower their property taxes if their home or building is damaged or destroyed. The Trumbull County Auditor’s Office uses this form to adjust the taxable value of affected properties.
Why Is the DTE 26 Form Important?
Property taxes in Ohio are based on a property’s market value. If your property is damaged, its value may drop. The DTE 26 form ensures your taxes reflect this lower value, saving you money.
Who Can File the DTE 26 Form in Trumbull County?
Any property owner in Trumbull County can file the DTE 26 form if their property is damaged or destroyed. This includes owners of homes, businesses, or other real estate. The damage must come from events like storms, fires, floods, or intentional demolition.
Types of Damage Eligible for DTE 26
The DTE 26 form covers many types of property damage. Here are some common examples:
- Storm Damage: Tornadoes, high winds, or hail that harm buildings.
- Fire Damage: Partial or total destruction from fires.
- Flood Damage: Water damage from heavy rain or overflowing rivers.
- Other Disasters: Earthquakes, vandalism, or accidental destruction.
How Does the DTE 26 Form Work?
When you file the DTE 26 form, the Trumbull County Auditor reviews your property’s damage. They assess how much the value has decreased. If approved, your property’s taxable value is lowered, reducing your tax bill for the next year.
Where to Find the DTE 26 Digital Form
The digital DTE 26 form is available on the Trumbull County Auditor’s website at auditor.co.trumbull.oh.us. You can download it as a PDF, fill it out on your computer, and submit it electronically or by mail.
Steps to File the DTE 26 Form in Trumbull County
Filing the DTE 26 form is easy. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
- Download the Form: Visit the Trumbull County Auditor’s website and download the digital DTE 26 form.
- Gather Evidence: Collect photos, repair estimates, or insurance reports showing the damage.
- Complete the Form: Fill out all required fields, including property details and damage description.
- Submit the Form: Email it to the Auditor’s Office or mail it to 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481.
- Follow Up: Contact the Auditor’s Office at (330) 675-2420 to confirm receipt.
Deadlines for Filing the DTE 26 Form
Timing is critical when filing the DTE 26 form. For damage occurring from January to September, file by December 31 of that year. For damage in October, November, or December, the deadline is January 31 of the next year.
What Information Do You Need for the DTE 26 Form?
To fill out the DTE 26 form, you need some important details. Here’s what you should include:
- Property Information: You’ll need the parcel number, address, and the owner’s name.
- Damage Details: Include the date of the incident and a brief description of what happened.
- Evidence: Add photos, contractor estimates, or insurance documents to support your claim.
- Contact Information: Make sure to include your phone number and email for follow-up.
How the Auditor’s Office Evaluates Your DTE 26 Application
The Trumbull County Auditor’s Office carefully reviews your DTE 26 form. They might send an appraiser to check your property. The appraiser will assess the damage and estimate the value reduction.
The final decision is based on this assessment.
Benefits of Filing the DTE 26 Form
Filing the DTE 26 form can save you money. A lower property value means lower property taxes. This can be a big help if you’re facing costly repairs after a disaster.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing the DTE 26 Form
Avoid these errors to improve your chances of approval:
- Missing Deadlines: File by December 31 or January 31, depending on when the damage occurred.
- Incomplete Forms: Make sure to fill out every section of the form.
- Lack of Evidence: Always include photos or documents to support your claim.
- Incorrect Information: Double-check your property’s parcel number and address.
DTE 26 Filing Deadlines in Trumbull County
| Damage Occurred | Filing Deadline |
|---|---|
| January–September | December 31 |
| October–December | January 31 (next year) |
How Long Does the DTE 26 Process Take?
After submitting the DTE 26 form, the Auditor’s Office usually takes a few weeks to process it. If an inspection is needed, it may take longer. You’ll receive a notice with the decision.
What Happens After Approval?
If your DTE 26 application is approved, the Auditor adjusts your property’s taxable value. The reduction will appear on your next property tax bill. If you’ve already paid taxes, you may receive a refund or credit.
Can You Appeal a DTE 26 Denial?
If your DTE 26 application is denied, you can appeal to the Trumbull County Board of Revision (BOR). File a complaint using DTE Form 1 by March 31, 2025, for the 2024 tax year. The BOR reviews your case and may adjust the decision.
Other Tax Relief Options in Trumbull County
Besides the DTE 26 form, Trumbull County offers other tax relief programs. These include:
- Homestead Exemption: For seniors, disabled persons, or surviving spouses.
- Owner-Occupancy Reduction: A 2.5% tax reduction for owner-occupied homes.
- CAUV Program: For agricultural land used commercially.
Trumbull County Tax Relief Programs
| Program | Who Qualifies | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| DTE 26 | Owners with damaged/destroyed property | Reduced taxable value |
| Homestead Exemption | Seniors, disabled, surviving spouses | Up to $56,000 exemption |
| Owner-Occupancy Reduction | Owner-occupied homes | 2.5% tax reduction |
| CAUV | Agricultural land owners | Lower taxes based on land use |
Tips for a Successful DTE 26 Application
To increase your chances of success, follow these tips:
- Act Quickly: File as soon as possible after the damage occurs.
- Be Thorough: Provide detailed descriptions and strong evidence.
- Keep Copies: Save copies of your form and supporting documents.
- Ask for Help: Contact the Auditor’s Office if you have questions.
How to Contact the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office
For help with the DTE 26 form, reach out to the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office. Visit them at 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481. Call (330) 675-2420 or email them through their website. They’re open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Why Use the Digital DTE 26 Form?
The digital DTE 26 form is convenient. You can fill it out on your computer, save it, and email it. This saves time compared to mailing a paper form. Plus, digital forms don’t need to be notarized.
Real-Life Example: Storm Damage in Trumbull County
In 2024, a tornado hit parts of Trumbull County, damaging homes in Warren. Many residents filed DTE 26 forms. For example, Jane Doe’s home lost its roof. She submitted photos and repair estimates with her form. The Auditor reduced her property’s value by 30%, saving her $1,200 in taxes.
FAQs About the DTE 26 Form
Q: Can I file the DTE 26 form for minor damage?
A: Yes, but the damage must affect your property’s value significantly.
Q: Do I need a lawyer to file the DTE 26 form?
A: No, but consulting one can help with complex cases.
Q: Is there a fee to file the DTE 26 form?
A: No, filing the form is free.
How Property Taxes Work in Trumbull County
Property taxes in Trumbull County are based on 35% of your property’s appraised market value. This is called the “taxable value.” For example, a $100,000 home has a taxable value of $35,000. Taxes are calculated using the local mill rate, which was 34.68 for 2023.
Why Property Values Matter
The Trumbull County Auditor updates property values every three years. This is called a reappraisal. It makes sure taxes match the current market. Damage to your property can lower its value, which is why the DTE 26 form is so important.
Additional Resources for Trumbull County Residents
For more help, check these resources:
- Trumbull County Auditor’s Website: Forms and tax information.
- Ohio Department of Taxation: Statewide tax guidelines.
- Local Libraries: Free access to computers for digital forms.
Conclusion
The DTE 26 form is a valuable tool for Trumbull County property owners facing damage or destruction. By filing this digital form, you can reduce your property taxes and ease the financial burden of repairs.
