The Homestead Exemption Application for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses (DTE 105I) in Trumbull County, Ohio, helps with property taxes. It’s for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability and their surviving spouses. This program cuts taxes on a primary home by up to $50,000 of its value.
To apply, fill out the DTE 105I form and send it to the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office. You’ll need a VA disability rating letter and DD214 discharge papers.
What Is the Homestead Exemption in Trumbull County?
The Homestead Exemption in Ohio lowers property taxes for some homeowners. In Trumbull County, it helps disabled veterans and surviving spouses save money. The DTE 105I form is for those with a 100% service-connected disability or their surviving spouses who meet certain conditions.
This exemption reduces the taxable value of a home by up to $50,000. For example, if your home is worth $100,000, you’d only pay taxes on $50,000. This can save hundreds of dollars each year on your property tax bill.
Who Qualifies for the DTE 105I Exemption?
To qualify for the DTE 105I exemption, you must meet specific requirements. The program is for disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. Here’s a quick look at who can apply:
- Disabled Veterans: Must have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or be receiving 100% compensation due to individual unemployability.
- Surviving Spouses: Must be the spouse of a veteran who was receiving the exemption at the time of death, be at least 59 years old, and own or occupy the homestead.
- Residency: The home must be your primary residence in Trumbull County as of January 1 of the application year.
You must also be an Ohio resident and own the home, either directly or through a qualifying trust.
Benefits of the DTE 105I Homestead Exemption
The DTE 105I exemption offers significant savings. It reduces the taxable value of your home, which lowers your annual property tax bill. Unlike the general homestead exemption, there’s no income cap for disabled veterans or eligible surviving spouses.
For example, a home valued at $150,000 could see a tax reduction based on $50,000 of its value. This could mean savings of $500 or more annually, depending on local tax rates. The state of Ohio reimburses local governments, so schools and communities don’t lose funding.
How to Apply for the DTE 105I Exemption in Trumbull County
Applying for the DTE 105I exemption is straightforward but requires specific documents. You can get the form from the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office or download it from trumbullcountyauditor.org. Here’s how to apply:
- Complete the DTE 105I Form: Fill out all sections, including your personal information and property details.
- Gather Required Documents: Include a VA letter showing your 100% disability rating or individual unemployability status, plus a copy of your DD214 discharge papers.
- Submit to the Auditor’s Office: Mail or deliver the form and documents to the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office at 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481.
- Wait for Approval: You’ll receive a notice by the first Monday in October stating whether your application was approved.
Applications must be filed with the county auditor. There’s no deadline for disabled veterans, but applying early ensures timely tax relief.
Documents Needed for the DTE 105I Application
To avoid delays, make sure you include all required documents. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Completed DTE 105I form
- VA letter confirming 100% service-connected disability or individual unemployability
- DD214 discharge papers showing honorable discharge
- Proof of ownership, like a deed or trust agreement (if applicable)
- Proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill
Surviving spouses may need additional documents, like a marriage certificate or proof of age. Double-check with the auditor’s office to ensure you have everything.
$50,000 Tax Reduction
The DTE 105I exemption reduces your home’s taxable value by up to $50,000. This doesn’t lower your home’s value. It just changes how taxes are calculated.
- Home Value: $120,000
- Exemption Amount: $50,000
- Taxable Value: $70,000
Your property taxes are then based on the lower amount. This can lead to big savings. The exact savings depend on Trumbull County’s tax rates, which vary by location.
Example of Tax Savings with DTE 105I Exemption
| Home Market Value | Exemption Amount | Taxable Value | Estimated Tax Savings (2% Tax Rate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100,000 | $50,000 | $50,000 | $1,000 |
| $150,000 | $50,000 | $100,000 | $1,000 |
| $200,000 | $50,000 | $150,000 | $1,000 |
Note: Tax savings depend on local millage rates. Check with the Trumbull County Auditor for exact figures.
Eligibility for Surviving Spouses
Surviving spouses of disabled veterans can also qualify for the DTE 105I exemption. To be eligible, you must meet these criteria:
- Be the surviving spouse of a veteran who was receiving the homestead exemption at the time of death.
- Be at least 59 years old on the date of the veteran’s death.
- Own or continue to occupy the homestead as your primary residence.
This ensures that spouses can continue to benefit from tax relief after losing their loved one. The exemption remains in place until the spouse remarries, sells the property, or moves out.
Trusts and Property Ownership
If your home is held in a trust, you may also qualify for the DTE 105I exemption. The trust must meet these conditions:
- It’s an inter vivos trust (created during your lifetime).
- You are the settlor (you provided the assets for the trust).
- The trust agreement states you have complete possession of the property.
Both revocable and irrevocable trusts can qualify, thanks to changes in Ohio law. If your home is owned by a corporation or partnership, it’s not eligible.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit your DTE 105I form, the Trumbull County Auditor reviews your application. You’ll get a notice by the first Monday in October. If approved, the exemption will appear on your next property tax bill.
If your application is denied, the notice will explain why. You can appeal the decision by filing a DTE 106B form (Homestead Exemption and Owner-Occupancy Reduction Complaint) within 60 days. For manufactured or mobile homes, appeals must be filed by January 31 of the following year.
Common Reasons for Application Denial
Applications can be denied for many reasons. Here are some common issues to avoid:
- Missing documents, like the VA disability letter or DD214.
- The home is not your primary residence.
- The applicant doesn’t meet the 100% disability requirement.
- Incorrect or incomplete information on the DTE 105I form.
To prevent denial, double-check your application and include all required documents. Contact the auditor’s office if you’re unsure about anything.
Do You Need to Reapply Every Year?
Good news: You don’t need to reapply every year for the DTE 105I exemption. Once approved, the exemption stays as long as you qualify. But, you must tell the Trumbull County Auditor if:
- You no longer own the home.
- You move out of the home.
- Your disability status changes.
- You remarry (for surviving spouses).
Every January, the auditor might send a DTE 105B form. This is to check if you’re eligible. Return it only if your situation has changed.
Key Dates for DTE 105I Application in Trumbull County
| Event | Date/Deadline |
|---|---|
| Application Submission | No deadline, but apply early for timely relief |
| Approval/Denial Notice | By first Monday in October |
| Appeal Deadline (Real Property) | Within 60 days of denial notice |
| Appeal Deadline (Manufactured Homes) | January 31 of the following year |
Differences Between DTE 105I and Other Homestead Exemptions
Trumbull County has other homestead exemptions, like the DTE 105A for seniors and disabled persons. Here’s how the DTE 105I is different:
- DTE 105I: For 100% disabled veterans and surviving spouses, with a $50,000 exemption and no income cap.
- DTE 105A: For seniors (65+) or disabled persons, with a $26,200 exemption and income limits.
- DTE 105K: For surviving spouses of public service officers killed in the line of duty, with different eligibility rules.
The DTE 105I offers a bigger tax reduction. It’s made for veterans with severe service-connected disabilities.
How the Exemption Affects Your Taxes
The DTE 105I exemption lowers your home’s taxable value. But it doesn’t change your home’s market value. Local tax rates in Trumbull County decide how much you save. For example, if the tax rate is 2%, a $50,000 exemption saves you $1,000 a year.
The state of Ohio pays for the exemption. So, local schools and governments aren’t affected. This means you save money without hurting community services.
Tips for a Successful Application
To ensure your DTE 105I application goes smoothly, follow these tips:
- Double-Check Documents: Make sure your VA letter and DD214 are current and clear.
- Complete All Form Sections: Missing info can cause delays or denial.
- Contact the Auditor’s Office: If you have questions, call or visit trumbullcountyauditor.org for help.
- File Early: Applying early in the year helps you get tax relief sooner.
- Keep Copies: Make copies of all documents before submitting them.
These steps can save time and prevent application issues.
Appealing a Denied Application
If your DTE 105I application is denied, you can appeal. File a DTE 106B form within 60 days of the denial notice. For mobile homes, the deadline is January 31 of the next year.
Include any extra documents that show you’re eligible. The Board of Revision will look at your case. They will decide. For help, contact the auditor’s office.
Special Considerations for Manufactured or Mobile Homes
Mobile or manufactured homes in Trumbull County can apply for the DTE 105I exemption. The process is the same, but the appeal deadline is earlier (January 31). You’ll need to show proof of ownership, like a title or registration.
The exemption covers your home and up to one acre of land. Make sure your home is your main residence as of January 1.
Why the DTE 105I Exemption Matters
The DTE 105I exemption helps disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. It lowers property taxes, easing financial stress. This program shows respect for veterans’ sacrifices.
In Trumbull County, the auditor’s office makes applying easy. They offer clear guidance and resources. This helps eligible residents get tax relief.
How to Contact the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office
Need help with your DTE 105I application? Contact the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office. Here’s how:
- Address: 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481
- Phone: (330) 675-2420
- Website: trumbullcountyauditor.org
The office can give you forms, answer questions, and help you apply. They’re dedicated to helping veterans and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply if my home is in a trust?
Yes, if it’s an inter vivos trust, you’re the settlor, and you have full possession of the property.
Q: Is there an income limit for the DTE 105I exemption?
No, unlike the DTE 105A, the DTE 105I has no income cap for disabled veterans or surviving spouses.
Q: What if I miss the appeal deadline?
You may need to reapply the next year. Contact the auditor’s office for guidance.
Q: Can I apply for both the DTE 105I and DTE 105A exemptions?
No, you can only apply for one homestead exemption per property. The DTE 105I offers a larger reduction.
Conclusion
The DTE 105I Homestead Exemption in Trumbull County is a big help for disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. It lowers property taxes on your main home, giving you financial relief. Applying is easy—just fill out the DTE 105I form, gather your documents, and send them to the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office.
Use this benefit to save money and stay in your home. Visit trumbullcountyauditor.org for forms and more info, or call the auditor’s office for help. This exemption is a small way to honor the sacrifices of veterans and their families in Trumbull County.
