How to apply for Homestead Credit — Wisconsin

Who it's for

The Homestead Credit is a refundable state tax credit that offsets property taxes or rent for lower-income Wisconsin residents — homeowners AND renters qualify. Household income must be under $24,680 for the year, and you must have lived in Wisconsin all year and be 18 or older. The credit is claimed with Schedule H on the state income tax return (up to about $1,168). Free filing help is available through county tax sites and the ADRC.

What you'll need

• Property tax bill or rent certificate signed by your landlord
• Income records for all household members
• Schedule H (filed with the Wisconsin return)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Homestead Credit — Wisconsin. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need property tax bill or rent certificate signed by your landlord, income records for all household members, schedule H (filed with the Wisconsin return) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your documents: your property tax bill or a rent certificate signed by your landlord, and income records for all household members.
2. Get Schedule H, the Wisconsin Homestead Credit form. This schedule is filed along with your Wisconsin state income tax return.
3. Be aware that household income for this credit includes some non-taxable amounts — not just wages. Collect records for all income sources for everyone in the home.
4. Complete Schedule H using your gathered documents. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue computes the final credit amount for you.
5. File your Wisconsin state income tax return with Schedule H attached. You can file online or get help by calling the Wisconsin Department of Revenue at 1-608-266-8641.
6. Consider free filing help if you need it. County tax sites and the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) offer assistance at no cost.

What to expect: After you submit your Wisconsin state return with Schedule H, the Department of Revenue reviews your filing and calculates your final Homestead Credit amount. Because this is a refundable credit, any amount beyond what you owe in taxes is returned to you as a refund. Processing times vary, so contact the Department of Revenue at 1-608-266-8641 for an estimate. The Homestead Credit must be claimed every year, so plan to gather your updated property tax bill or rent certificate and income records again when you file your next annual return.

Renewals

annual