Tax Tip #9 for Tax Professionals - Filing for the Homestead Credit Refund for Homeowners

When filing for the Homestead Credit Refund for Homeowners, use your client’s Statement of Property Taxes Payable in 2018 sent in March. This statement will have the correct qualifying tax amount when filing for the refund.

Do not use the Proposed Notice of Property Tax Changes sent this past November.

When can I electronically file for the Homestead Credit Refund?

We will not accept any electronic Homestead Credit Refund returns filed before March 15. If you e-file this return before March 15, you will receive error rejection code “0399.” You will need to wait until after March 15 to e-file.

Does the Minnesota Department of Revenue offer free online filing for this return?

Homeowners can file their 2017 Homestead Credit Refund for free using the department’s online filing system beginning March 15.

In order to use our system, your client must meet all of the following requirements:

• File an original Property Tax Refund return as a homeowner
• File a refund for 2016 or later
• Live in their home and not rent part of it out or use part of it for business
• Choose direct deposit for their refund

Note: Free online filing is available for the 2016 Homestead Credit Refund. The deadline to claim the 2016 refund is August 15, 2018.

Our system features a “Save and Finish Later” function, allowing your client to save their return and finish it up to 14 days later. Remind your client to write down their confirmation number.

See the Property Tax Refund Online Filing System for more information, including a list of documents your client needs to complete their return.

How can my client check on their refund?

Your client can check the status of their Homestead Credit Refund after July 1 by using the Where's My Refund system.