What does a homestead classification mean?

The residential homestead classification provides a property tax credit for property that is owned and occupied by the owner. The amount of credit is shown on your property tax statement and is deducted from your property tax bill.

What qualifications need to be met for the homestead classification?

In order to receive the homestead classification, you must submit an application to the County Assessor. To qualify for the homestead classification, you must:

You may be considered to be a Minnesota resident if all or some of the following conditions apply to you:

• State law requires that the Social Security number and signatures of the owners must be on this application. (Minnesota Statute 273.123, Subd. 13) If there is not enough space on the application for all required signatures and their Social Security numbers, use an extra sheet and include it with the application. Social Security numbers are confidential information. (Minnesota Statute 13.02, Subd. 12) They can only be used by the county assessor as provided for by state statute.
• A property owner who obtains or attempts to obtain homestead classification for a property other than his or her primary place of residence or the primary place of residence of his or her relative is, under state law, subject to a fine of up to $3,000 and/or up to one year of imprisonment. (Minnesota Statute 609.41) In addition, the property owner will be required to pay all tax which is due on the property based on its correct property class plus a penalty equal to the same amount. (Minnesota Statute 273.123, Subd. 13)
• If you are married, your spouse must also fill in the information requested. If your spouse is absent due to marriage dissolution proceedings, legal separation, employment in another location, or is residing in a nursing home or boarding care facility, contact the assessor's office for additional information on homestead.
• IF YOU MOVE....
  
  If at any time the property is sold, or you change your primary residence, state law requires you to notify the county assessor within 30 days. If you fail to notify the county assessor within 30 days of the change, you may be required to pay the tax which is due on the property on its correct property class plus a penalty equal to the same amount.

How do I apply for homestead?

Applications are available at the Steele County Assessor's Office or you may find the applications in the "Applications" section of this website on the left hand side.

When should I apply for homestead?

After purchasing and moving into your home, you should apply for the homestead classification as soon as possible. You must purchase and occupy your home by December 1, and the homestead application must be turned into the County Assessor's Office by December 15 to be eligible for the homestead classification for taxes payable in the following year.

How often must I apply for homestead?

If your property is granted the homestead classification, it is not necessary for you to reapply for the classification.

Can I have more than one homestead?

No, you may only claim one homestead. However, if you change residences during the year, you can apply for homestead at the new residence. You must notify your County Assessor that you have changed your primary residence and you must complete and sign a homestead application.

Can a relative of the owner qualify for the residential homestead classification?

Yes, certain relatives can qualify for the residential relative homestead classification. The relative may be the owner's parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, nephew, or niece. This relationship may be either by blood or by marriage.

To apply for the residential relative homestead classification, the relative must complete and sign the Residential Relative Homestead Application. The owner of the property must also sign the residential relative homestead application. Applications for this particular classification must be picked up in the Steele County Assessor's Office or you can call and request this application to be sent to you by calling (507)444-7435.

To qualify for the residential relative homestead classification, the relative must: (All three must apply).

1. Be a qualifying relative to one of the owners of the property.
2. Occupy the property as your primary residence.
3. Be a Minnesota resident.

Can property held under a trust qualify for homestead?

Property held under a trust may qualify for homestead. Applications are available at the Steele County Assessor's Office or you may find the application in the "Applications" section of the website.

Who do I contact if I have more questions about the homestead classification?

Please contact the Steele County Assessor's Office at (507)444-7435.