The Trumbull County Auditor Combine Form helps merge land under one owner into one tax parcel. It makes managing property easier and might cut down on paperwork. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the Combine Form, its benefits, and how to use it.
What Is the Trumbull County Auditor Combine Form?
The Combine Form is a service of the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office. It lets owners join nearby parcels into one for tax purposes. This makes property records and taxes simpler.
It’s great for those with many lots who want to handle them as one. The process follows Ohio laws.
Why Combine Parcels in Trumbull County?
Combining parcels saves time and effort. It means fewer tax bills. Plus, it makes managing property records easier.
For example, owning three lots means three tax bills. But combining them into one bill makes payments simpler. It also helps with future sales or development.
Benefits of Using the Combine Form
- Fewer Tax Bills: One bill instead of multiple for contiguous parcels.
- Simplified Records: Easier to track ownership and property details.
- Potential Cost Savings: May reduce fees for managing multiple parcels.
- Streamlined Development: Simplifies planning for building or land use.
Who Can Use the Combine Form?
Any owner of contiguous parcels in Trumbull County can use the Combine Form. The parcels must share a boundary and be in the same taxing district. They must also be owned by the same person.
For instance, if you own two lots side by side in Warren, Ohio, you’re eligible. But if the parcels are in different taxing districts, they cannot be combined.
How to Access the Trumbull County Auditor Combine Form
The Combine Form is available through the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office. You can get it online or in person. The office is at 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481.
To download the form, visit the Trumbull County Auditor’s website. Look for the “Forms” section under the Auditor’s services. You can also call 330-675-2420 to request a copy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing the Combine Form
Filing the Combine Form is easy if you follow these steps. Here’s how to do it:
- Gather Property Information: Collect parcel numbers, addresses, and ownership details.
- Download or Pick Up the Form: Get the Combine Form from the Auditor’s website or office.
- Complete the Form: Fill in all required fields, including parcel numbers and owner information.
- Submit the Form: Deliver it in person, by mail, or via email to the Auditor’s Office.
- Pay Any Fees: Check with the office for any applicable fees for combining parcels.
- Wait for Approval: The Auditor’s Office will review and process your request.
Required Documents for Submission
- Combine Form (completed and signed).
- Proof of ownership (deed or title).
- Parcel maps or surveys (if requested).
- Identification (driver’s license or ID).
Trumbull County Property Records
The Trumbull County Auditor’s Office manages over 144,000 parcels. These records include ownership, tax assessments, and property characteristics. The Combine Form updates these records to reflect the merged parcel.
You can search property records online at the Auditor’s Real Estate Search Site. This tool shows parcel details, tax status, and assessed values. It’s a great way to verify your parcels before combining them.
How Combining Parcels Affects Property Taxes
Combining parcels doesn’t directly change your property’s assessed value. The Auditor’s Office uses a mass appraisal method to determine values. This method considers sales data, market trends, and property features.
Combining parcels may affect tax administration. You’ll receive one tax bill instead of multiple. This can make budgeting easier, but the total tax amount typically stays the same.
Impact of Combining Parcels on Property Taxes
| Aspect | Before Combining | After Combining |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Tax Bills | One per parcel (e.g., 3 bills) | One bill for combined parcel |
| Assessed Value | Sum of individual parcel values | Same total value, one parcel |
| Tax Payment Process | Multiple payments or schedules | Single payment or schedule |
| Administrative Fees | Possible fees for each parcel | Reduced fees for single parcel |
Common Reasons to Combine Parcels
Property owners combine parcels for various reasons. Here are some common scenarios:
- Building a Larger Home: Combining lots provides more space for construction.
- Simplifying Sales: One parcel is easier to sell than multiple lots.
- Reducing Paperwork: Fewer parcels mean less record-keeping.
- Agricultural Use: Merging lots for farming under programs like CAUV (Current Agricultural Use Valuation).
Trumbull County Auditor’s Role in Property Management
The Auditor’s Office, led by Martha C. Yoder, oversees property records, tax assessments, and public services. It ensures fair and accurate valuations. The office also handles forms like the Combine Form, valuation complaints, and homestead exemptions.
The Auditor’s website offers tools like GIS mapping and tax estimators. These help residents understand their property’s value and tax obligations.
What Happens After You Submit the Combine Form?
Once you submit the Combine Form, the Auditor’s Office reviews it. They check if the parcels are contiguous and under the same ownership. They may also verify boundaries using GIS mapping.
If approved, the parcels are merged into one tax parcel. You’ll receive a new parcel number and updated records. The process usually takes a few weeks, depending on the office’s workload.
Potential Challenges When Combining Parcels
Combining parcels is usually smooth, but issues can arise. Here are some challenges to watch for:
- Non-Contiguous Parcels: Parcels must share a boundary.
- Different Taxing Districts: Parcels in separate districts cannot be combined.
- Ownership Disputes: All parcels must be under the same owner.
- Pending Taxes: Unpaid taxes may delay the process.
If you face issues, contact the Auditor’s Office for guidance. They can clarify requirements or suggest solutions.
How to Check If Your Parcels Qualify
Before filing, confirm your parcels meet the criteria. Use the Trumbull County Auditor’s property search tool. Enter your parcel numbers or address to view details.
Check that the parcels are adjacent and in the same taxing district. Ensure all parcels list the same owner. If unsure, call the Auditor’s Office at 330-675-2420.
Trumbull County Auditor’s Online Tools
The Auditor’s website is full of useful tools. You can find:
- Property Search: Get details on parcels, who owns them, and taxes.
- GIS Mapping: See property lines and land use.
- Tax Estimator: Figure out what taxes might be.
- Forms Library: Download forms like the Combine Form or DTE 1.
These tools help you manage your property online.
Related Forms You Might Need
The Combine Form is just one form from the Auditor’s Office. There are more, like:
- DTE 1: Complaint Against the Valuation of Real Property.
- DTE 26: Application for Valuation Deduction for Destroyed or Damaged Property.
- DTE 105A: Homestead Exemption Application for Seniors or Disabled Persons.
- DTE 102: Statement of Conveyance for Agricultural Use Valuation.
These forms help with different property and tax issues. Check the Auditor’s website for more.
How Combining Parcels Impacts CAUV Properties
If your parcels are in the Current Agricultural Use Valuation (CAUV) program, combining them matters. CAUV lowers taxes for land used in commercial agriculture. Combining parcels keeps them in the program but you must renew every year.
If the combined parcel no longer qualifies for CAUV, you might face a recoupment charge. This is a three-year tax penalty based on past savings. Always talk to the Auditor’s Office before combining CAUV parcels.
Trumbull County’s Property Valuation Process
Trumbull County does a mass reappraisal every six years, with updates every three years. The 2023 reappraisal set values as of January 1, 2023. These values will be used for 2024 tax bills.
The Auditor’s Office uses sales data and market trends to set fair values. Combining parcels doesn’t change the total value but puts it under one parcel number.
Trumbull County Reappraisal Schedule
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Sexennial Reappraisal | Full review of all 144,000+ parcels |
| 2024 | Tax Year Begins | New values used for tax bills |
| 2026 | Triennial Update | Partial update to reflect market changes |
| 2029 | Next Sexennial Reappraisal | Full review of all parcels again |
Filing a Valuation Complaint with the Board of Revision
If you disagree with your property’s value after combining parcels, you can file a complaint with the Trumbull County Board of Revision (BOR). The BOR includes representatives from the Auditor, Treasurer, and Commissioners.
Use the DTE 1 form to file a valuation complaint. Submit it by April 1, 2025, for the 2024 tax year. The BOR reviews evidence and may hold a hearing to decide if a value change is warranted.
Tips for a Smooth Combine Form Process
To ensure your Combine Form is processed quickly, follow these tips:
- Double-check parcel numbers and ownership details.
- Include all required documents with your submission.
- Contact the Auditor’s Office if you have questions.
- Submit the form well before any deadlines for tax changes.
Trumbull County Auditor’s Commitment to Transparency
The Auditor’s Office, led by Martha C. Yoder, values transparency. They’ve won awards for their Annual Financial Report for 13 years. You can see county spending online with the Ohio Checkbook tool.
There’s also a Local Government Revenue Impact page. It shows how property taxes fund schools, roads, and services.
How to Contact the Trumbull County Auditor’s Office
Need help with the Combine Form? Reach out to the Auditor’s Office:
- Phone: 330-675-2420
- Email: Available through the website
- Address: 160 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
The office is closed on holidays like Memorial Day (May 26, 2025). You can also use the lockbox for document drop-off after hours.
FAQs About the Trumbull County Auditor Combine Form
Q: How long does it take to process the Combine Form?
A: It usually takes a few weeks, depending on the workload.
Q: Is there a fee to combine parcels?
A: Fees vary. Contact the Auditor’s Office to confirm any costs.
Q: Can I combine parcels in different townships?
A: No, parcels must be in the same taxing district.
Q: Does combining parcels affect my property taxes?
A: It doesn’t change the total tax amount but consolidates bills.
Why Use the Auditor’s Online Services?
The Trumbull County Auditor’s website is easy to use. You can search properties, download forms, and check tax status anytime. It’s available 24/7, making it convenient for busy residents.
For those who prefer in-person help, the office staff is ready to assist. They can guide you through the Combine Form process or answer questions about property records.
Combining Parcels for Development Projects
If you’re planning a development project, combining parcels can help. A single parcel simplifies zoning applications and building permits. It also makes it easier to present your property to developers or buyers.
For example, combining three lots into one can create a larger site for a new home or business. Always check with the Auditor’s Office and local zoning authorities first.
Trumbull County’s GIS Mapping Services
The Auditor’s Office offers Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping. This tool shows property boundaries, land use, and infrastructure. It’s useful for verifying parcel details before combining.
You can access GIS maps online or request custom maps from the office. These maps help with planning and ensuring your parcels qualify for combination.
How to Appeal a Denied Combine Form Request
If your Combine Form is denied, don’t worry. Contact the Auditor’s Office to understand the reason. Common issues include non-contiguous parcels or ownership mismatches.
You can resubmit with corrected information or appeal to the Board of Revision. Provide additional documents, like surveys, to support your case.
Trumbull County’s Role in Ohio’s Property System
Trumbull County is one of Ohio’s 88 counties, each with an Auditor’s Office. These offices follow state laws, like Ohio Revised Code Section 5713.01, for property assessments. The Combine Form is part of this system, ensuring accurate and fair property records.
The county’s 144,000+ parcels include homes, businesses, and farms. The Auditor’s Office keeps these records up-to-date for transparency and efficiency.
Conclusion
The Trumbull County Auditor Combine Form is a valuable tool for property owners. It simplifies tax bills, reduces paperwork, and streamlines property management. By following the steps outlined, you can easily combine contiguous parcels and enjoy the benefits.
