In Trumbull County, Ohio, homeowners can get a 2.5% tax cut on their home and land. This is through the DTE 105C form. It’s for those who live in their home as their main place as of January 1 of the application year. Let’s explore this program, how to apply, and why it’s important for Trumbull County residents.
What Is the Owner Occupancy Credit?
The Owner Occupancy Credit is a tax cut for homeowners in Ohio. It helps lower your yearly property tax bill. In Trumbull County, it reduces your home’s taxable value by 2.5%.
To qualify, you must own and live in the home. The credit only applies to the home and up to one acre of land. Any extra land doesn’t get the reduction.
The DTE 105C form is what you need to apply for this credit. It’s easy to fill out, but you must follow certain rules and deadlines.
Why the Owner Occupancy Credit Matters
Property taxes can be a big cost for homeowners. In Trumbull County, this credit can save you hundreds of dollars a year. For example, a $100,000 home could save about $87.50 annually, based on average tax rates.
This program encourages homeownership and rewards those who live in their homes. It’s a small but meaningful way to ease the financial burden of property taxes.
Who Can Apply for the DTE 105C Credit?
Not everyone can get the Owner Occupancy Credit. Here are the main rules:
- You must own the home or have a legal interest in it.
- The home must be your primary residence as of January 1 of the application year.
- You can only claim the credit for one property in Ohio.
- The credit applies to homes and up to one acre of land, not additional acres or other properties.
If you own multiple properties, you can only claim the credit on the home you live in most of the time. For example, a vacation home wouldn’t qualify.
How to Apply for the Owner Occupancy Credit
Applying for the DTE 105C credit is easy. You need to file the DTE 105C form with the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office. Here’s how:
- Get the Form: Download the DTE 105C form from trumbullcountyauditor.org or pick one up at the Auditor’s Office at 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481.
- Fill It Out: Provide your name, address, and property details. You’ll also confirm that the home is your primary residence.
- Submit by Deadline: File the form between the first Monday in January and December 31 of the year you’re applying for.
- Wait for Approval: The Auditor’s Office will review your application. If approved, the credit will appear on your next tax bill.
You only need to apply once. The credit continues as long as you own and live in the home.
Deadlines You Need to Know
Timing is key for the Owner Occupancy Credit. You must file the DTE 105C form between the first Monday in January and December 31 of the tax year you’re applying for. For example, to get the credit for 2025 taxes (payable in 2026), file between January 6, 2025, and December 31, 2025.
Missing the deadline means you’ll have to wait until the next year to apply. The credit isn’t applied retroactively, so plan ahead.
What Happens After You Apply?
After you send in the DTE 105C form, the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office checks it. They see if you qualify. If you do, you’ll see a 2.5% tax cut on your bill.
If they say no, you’ll get a notice. It will tell you why. You can appeal by filing a DTE 106B form with the county Board of Revision. You have 60 days to do this.
Benefits of the Owner Occupancy Credit
The Owner Occupancy Credit can really save you money. Here’s why you should apply:
- Lower Taxes: You’ll save 2.5% on your home and one acre of land.
- One-Time Application: You only need to apply once. The credit keeps going as long as you qualify.
- Easy Process: The DTE 105C form is easy to fill out. You don’t need a lot of paperwork.
- Financial Relief: Even a little savings can help, which is great for families on a tight budget.
For a $150,000 home, you could save about $131 a year. This depends on your local tax rates.
Common Questions About the DTE 105C Form
Do I Need to Reapply Every Year?
No, you only need to file the DTE 105C form once. The credit stays with you until you sell the home, move out, or stop using it as your main home.
What If I Move to a New Home?
If you move, you must file a new DTE 105C form for your new home. The credit doesn’t automatically move with you.
Can I Claim the Credit for a Rental Property?
No, the credit is only for your main home. Rental properties or second homes don’t qualify.
What If I Miss the Deadline?
If you miss the December 31 deadline, you’ll have to wait until next year to apply. The credit won’t apply to past years.
How the Credit Affects Your Property Taxes
Property taxes in Trumbull County are based on your home’s assessed value. The Owner Occupancy Credit lowers this value by 2.5%. Here’s an example:
- Home Value: $100,000
- Assessed Value (35% of market value): $35,000
- Owner Occupancy Credit (2.5% of assessed value): $875
- New Taxable Value: $34,125
Your taxes are then based on the lower value. This saves you money.
Example of Owner Occupancy Credit Savings
| Home Value | Assessed Value | Credit Amount | New Taxable Value | Estimated Annual Savings* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $100,000 | $35,000 | $875 | $34,125 | $87.50 |
| $150,000 | $52,500 | $1,312.50 | $51,187.50 | $131.25 |
| $200,000 | $70,000 | $1,750 | $68,250 | $175.00 |
*Based on an average tax rate of 100 mills (10%). Actual savings vary by local tax rates.
Combining with Other Tax Relief Programs
The Owner Occupancy Credit can be used with other programs. For example, the Homestead Exemption. This exemption lowers property taxes for seniors, disabled people, and some veterans.
To get the Homestead Exemption, you must:
- Be at least 65 years old or have a disability.
- Make less than $40,000 a year for 2025 taxes.
- Live in your home as your main place.
You can apply for both the Owner Occupancy Credit (DTE 105C) and the Homestead Exemption (DTE 105A) if you qualify. For more information, contact the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for the DTE 105C credit is easy. But, mistakes can cause delays or denial. Here are some common errors:
- Missing the Deadline: File between January and December 31 to avoid delays.
- Applying for the Wrong Property: Only your primary residence qualifies.
- Incomplete Forms: Double-check that all fields on the DTE 105C form are filled out.
- Not Updating Information: If you move or sell your home, notify the Auditor’s Office.
How to Appeal a Denied Application
If your DTE 105C application is denied, you can appeal. File a DTE 106B form with the Trumbull County Board of Revision within 60 days. Include any supporting documents, like proof of residency.
The Board of Revision includes the County Auditor, Treasurer, and Commissioners. They will review your appeal and make a decision.
Trumbull County Auditor’s Office: Your Resource
The Trumbull County Auditor’s Office is at 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481. They are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. You can call them at (330) 675-2420 or visit trumbullcountyauditor.org for forms and info.
The office offers resources like:
- DTE 105C form downloads
- Property tax calculators
- Guides on other tax relief programs
Contact Information for Trumbull County Auditor’s Office
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 160 High St NW, Warren, OH 44481 |
| Phone | (330) 675-2420 |
| Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM |
| Website | trumbullcountyauditor.org |
| Contact via website form |
Tips for Maximizing Your Property Tax Savings
To get the most from the Owner Occupancy Credit and other programs:
- File Early: Submit your DTE 105C form early in the year to ensure processing.
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet all requirements before applying.
- Explore Other Programs: Look into the Homestead Exemption or veteran-specific tax breaks.
- Keep Records: Save copies of your application and approval notice.
Why Trumbull County Supports Homeowners
Trumbull County cares about its people. It offers programs like the Owner Occupancy Credit to help with housing costs. These efforts help families stay in their homes and strengthen the community.
The county also has tools like property search portals and tax estimators on trumbullcountyauditor.org. These tools help you understand your taxes and plan your money better.
Final Thoughts
The Owner Occupancy Credit is a big help for homeowners in Trumbull County. It lowers your property taxes by 2.5%, saving you money every year. By filing the DTE 105C form on time and meeting the rules, you can save a lot with little effort.
Go to trumbullcountyauditor.org to get the DTE 105C form or learn about other tax relief programs. Use this chance to cut your tax bill and keep more money for yourself.
