Do You Have The 2.5% Property Tax Reduction Benefit?

In my nearly seven years on Parma City Council, I have worked diligently to ensure that my constituents are aware of the many money saving programs available to them. This has become especially important during the past several months in light of the economic downturn. One little known and little understood benefit is the 2.5% property tax reduction that every resident who resides in an owner occupied dwelling in the state of Ohio is due. Granted, most of us receive this benefit already, as it is normally taken care of at the time of the transfer of real estate. However, in my tenure I have found that some residents are not receiving the benefit. To find out if you are receiving your benefit, simply go to the County Auditor’s website at www.auditor.cuyahogacounty.us and complete a search for your property or call the Auditor’s Real Estate Services Department at 216-443-7089. If it is found that you are not receiving the benefit, you will be asked to complete an application. To be eligible, you must own and occupy your home as your principal place of residence on January 1 of the year you file for the reduction. In future articles, I plan to make you aware of other benefits you may be missing out on.