Two Ohio state representatives are supporting legislation they say will establish clear statewide protections against property tax‑related foreclosures for the state’s senior homeowners.
Reps. David Thomas (R) and Adam Mathews (R) highlighted H.B. 443, known as the Senior Protection from Foreclosure Act, during a news conference Wednesday.
The bill would bar counties from enforcing property tax foreclosures on homeowners ages 65 and up, or qualifying surviving spouses, provided that the home is owner‑occupied, valued below $750,000, and the owner continues to make a monthly payment toward outstanding taxes.
Supporters say many Ohio counties already offer informal payment plans to help older residents manage rising property taxes — and H.B. 443 would codify these practices into law.
“The legislature took action on the unvoted property tax spikes in the 2025 sessions, but it is still important for us to address reforms on the foreclosure aspect of property taxes,” Thomas said. “I am not aware of any other states that have this kind of legislation, and this puts Ohio at the top for safeguarding our senior homeowners from foreclosures.”
While foreclosure on seniors is extremely rare, concerns raised by Ohioans illustrate the need for a clear standard, bill proponents added.
House Bill 443 ensures seniors who meet the qualifications will not lose their homes due to tax foreclosure, while still preserving all existing tax collection and treasurer processes.
“As the legislature continues to work towards comprehensive solutions to address the property tax crisis in Ohio, this simple bill adds a crucial layer of protection for those honestly working to pay their taxes and keep their home,” Mathews said.
Testimony on the bill was provided in late 2025 to the Ohio House Ways and Means Committee, where it’s awaiting further consideration.
According to a recent ATTOM report, Ohio ranked No. 6 among all states for highest foreclosure rates as of October 2025, with one in every 3,079 housing units receiving a foreclosure filing.
The Ohio Housing Finance Agency’s latest Housing Needs Assessment also noted that older mortgage holders — particularly those 65 and older — are more likely than younger homeowners to spend at least half of their income on housing.
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