Homesteads

A homestead is a property tax classification that may be applied to an occupied property for one’s primary place of residence.

To qualify, you must:

• Be the owner or a qualifying relative* of at least one of the owners; and
• Occupy the property as your primary residence; and
• Be a Minnesota resident. In the case of a qualified relative, the owner need not be a Minnesota resident.
  
  (*To qualify for a relative homestead, you must be the owner’s son, son-in-law, daughter, daughter-in-law, stepchild, parent, parent-in-law, stepparent, grandchild, grandparent, grandparent-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, aunt or uncle.)

• Present or attach a copy of the deed and certificate of real estate value provided at closing, usually labeled "Homestead Filing Instructions."
• Provide Social Security numbers of all owners, spouses and/or qualified relatives who live in the property.
• Apply in person at the Assessing Division, located in City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Blvd.
• If you cannot apply in person, download a copy of the application form (PDF), attach all required items and fax or mail to the Plymouth Assessing Division.

One. Other properties you own may have a homestead classification if occupied by a qualifying relative. For more information, contact the assessor’s office in the community or county where the property is located.

Even though Social Security numbers are private information, under Minnesota law they must be provided before a homestead will be granted. Social Security numbers will be used to determine if owners or relatives of owners have applied for more than one homestead in the state.

It’s a good idea to apply as soon as you move into your new home so that you don’t forget.

To qualify for a full-year homestead classification, homeowners must own and occupy their home on for before Jan. 2. The filing deadline is Jan. 15.

Property not qualifying for homestead on Jan. 2, but purchased and owner-occupied on or before Dec. 1, may qualify for a mid-year homestead classification. The filing deadline for mid-year homestead is Dec. 15.

If the assessor is not notified within 30 days that the property has been sold or is no longer being used as a primary place of residence, the homestead will be removed and penalties will be imposed.

Every homestead is unique. Some homesteads involve property held under a trust agreement. Other property is purchased with lender requirements that may affect the homestead classification. You are encouraged to contact the Plymouth Assessing Division with any questions you may have or refer to Minnesota Statute Chapter 273.124.