COLUMBUS, Ind. – Bartholomew County residents and all homeowners throughout the State of Indiana will notice a change in their property taxes this year.
The Homestead deduction has increased to $48,000 from $45,000. However, the mortgage deduction that had been $3,000 has been eliminated. The Indiana State Legislature authored these changes in a 2022 bill. The property taxes due in 2024 are the first tax bills that reflect this change.
Bartholomew County Auditor Pia O’Connor stated, “I have always thought that the mortgage deduction should be eliminated. Homeowners who have paid their mortgages will now receive this benefit, not just those with debt. Further, this streamlines the property tax deductions for the majority of homeowners. It is no longer necessary to re-file deductions after refinancing.”
She added, “The former mortgage deduction was also an administrative burden in Auditor’s offices throughout the state. The Bartholomew County Auditor’s office was able to eliminate a position due partially to this change.”
Additional information on deductions can be obtained through the Bartholomew County Auditor’s website at bartholomew.in.gov/auditor or by calling 812-379-1510.