Seniors

Portage County residents work hard, with the promise that we will be able to enjoy the fruits of those labors after we retire. The resources provided on this page are meant to supply senior citizens with information on special programs to reduce real estate taxes, assist in building savings, and secure the benefits of homeownership through our golden years.


Homestead Exemption

The Homestead Exemption is a program that lowers real estate taxes for Ohio residents 65 years of age and above, and those with permanent and total disabilities. The exemption takes the form of a credit on property tax bills, and allows homeowners to exempt up to $25,000 of the market value of their homes from all local property taxes.

The program applies only to an applicant’s primary dwelling, and up to one acre of land. For most new applicants, the program is also means tested, or based on income. The program allows a maximum annual adjusted gross income of $31,000 for 2015, indexed to increase with inflation each year.

The exact amount of savings available varies, but overall qualified homeowners in Ohio save an average of around $400 each year.

To see if you qualify, and for more information, please contact the Auditor’s Office at 330-297-3571.


Third Party Notification Program for Seniors and Dependent Adults

Seniors and dependent adult homeowners may designate another person to be contacted for tax-related purposes. For more information, please contact our office at 330-297-2243, or via email, or visit our “Change of Address” page.


Home Value Revisions

Through the Board of Revision, homeowners can challenge the value assigned to their home by the Auditor. If successful, a challenge can lead to lower property values and lower tax bills.

To file a formal challenge, taxpayers must complete a form providing a reason for the requested home value change. The form must be filed with the Auditor’s Office no later than March 31st of the following year to be considered. Completed forms should be returned to:

Board of Revision
c/o Portage County Auditor
P.O. Box 1217
Ravenna, OH 44266

Before filing a challenge, residents are encouraged to contact the Auditor’s Office to discuss other possible valuation reductions and the Board of Revision process at 330-297-3568.


Reverse Mortgages

A reverse mortgage is a type of home loan that allows older people to convert the equity in their homes to income. To qualify for a reverse mortgage, you must be at least 62 years of age and own your home free of any existing mortgages.

Under these plans, instead of making a monthly payment to a lender each month, the lender makes a payment to you. You remain in your home as long as you live, and the loans are tax-free and have no impact on Social Security benefits. The Federal Housing Authority insures some types of reverse mortgages.

There are many types of reverse mortgages, and the program you choose determines the way in which you receive funds. Proceeds can be used in any manner you choose. Many seniors use reverse mortgages to pay for home repairs, to pay real estate taxes, and for other property-related purposes.

A reverse mortgage is not right for everyone. Despite what some reverse mortgages companies claim, you can lose your home under a reverse mortgage if you fail to maintain proper insurance or pay for utilities and taxes. If you fail to list your spouse on the reverse mortgage, they may lose the home if you pass away before they do.

Before you decide to pursue a reverse mortgage, you should consult with your family and, if you can, qualified legal and financial advisors.

For more information on reverse mortgages, use the following links:


Ohio Department of Aging

The Ohio Department of Aging offers services and supports for older adults, their caregivers, and their families, and leads a network of agencies and service providers in the state that helps seniors maintain quality of life and independence throughout their lives.

For more, click here.


2-1-1 Portage

2-1-1 Portage provides free and confidential information and referrals on a host of services, including prescription drug discounts, housing and utility assistance, credit counseling, and more.

You can contact 2-1-1 Portage by clicking here, calling 2-1-1, or emailing your concerns here


AARP

The American Association of Retired Persons provides resources and advice to seniors for finances, travel, health and technology. Click here for more information.


Legal Aid

Community Legal Aid offers low cost legal assistance for seniors who qualify on a host of financial and housing-related matters.

For more, visit their website here, call them at 1-800-998-9454, or visit their Portage County offices, open Wednesdays 8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. or by appointment:

Community Legal Aid, Inc.
250 S. Chestnut St. Suite 22
Ravenna, OH 44266