March 15 Deadline for New Homeowners to Get Property Tax Reductions

Press Release

South Dakota homeowners who changed residences last year have until Monday, March 15, 2010, to file for the owner-occupied, single-family dwelling certificates that make them eligible for a reduction in property taxes.

"Those people who have moved into different homes or built new homes and moved into them should sign up for their property tax reductions," said Gov. Mike Rounds. "I want to make sure all eligible homeowners get their property taxes reduced."

South Dakota homeowners who owned and occupied homes on Nov. 1, 2009, are eligible for the classification and property tax reductions, the Governor said.

Taxpayers who received the reductions previously and still own and occupy the same homes will continue to receive property tax reductions without filing new certificates. It is not necessary for them to file again.

The 2010 valuation notices that taxpayers have received will indicate if their homes are classified as owner-occupied. Homeowners are advised to check those notices to make sure their property is classified as owner-occupied for the lower tax rate.

People who purchased existing homes last year to live in, built new residences last year before Nov. 1, 2009, or have previously not applied for the owner-occupied classification must apply to their county director of equalization by March 15, 2010. Applications postmarked by March 15, 2010, will qualify.

Homeowners needing forms or with questions about the owner-occupied certificates should contact their county director of equalization or the Property and Special Taxes Division of the South Dakota Department of Revenue and Regulation in Pierre at 605-773-3139.

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