Iowa Homestead Tax Credit

Iowa Department of Revenue

Available Property Tax Relief

About This Program

Iowa Homestead Tax Credit is available to homeowners in Des Moines, IA.

Every Iowa homeowner should file this. Reduces your taxable property value. File once with the Polk County Assessor, stays on your property until you move. Most homeowners qualify but many don't know to file.

All owner-occupied homes, file once

Verified against Iowa Department of Revenue's official page on 2026-06-17.

Data last verified 2026-06-12. How we verify our data.

In Des Moines, IA, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • Reduces taxable property value in funding
  • For homeowners
  • No income requirement
  • Covers: exterior, windows, major, emergency, accessibility
  • File by July 1, one time only

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

515-286-3014

A grant-savvy contractor in Des Moines, IA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Des Moines early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Form to file: Homestead Tax Credit and Exemption (Form 54-028)

The Iowa Homestead Tax Credit lowers the property tax on the home you own and occupy, and homeowners 65 and older also get an additional homestead exemption on a portion of taxable value. You file Form 54-028 once with your local assessor; once approved it carries forward each year without refiling.

Steps to apply

  1. Confirm you own and occupy the Iowa home as your residence (and note your age for the 65+ exemption).
  2. Get Form 54-028, the Homestead Tax Credit and Exemption application, from the Iowa Department of Revenue.
  3. Complete it (the form needs no extra documentation; the assessor may ask to verify age for the 65+ exemption).
  4. File it with your local assessor; the credit and exemption then continue each year automatically.
Get the official form

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you own and occupy the home as your residence.
  • Proof of age if you are claiming the 65 or older exemption (the assessor may ask).
  • The completed Form 54-028.
  • Your property's parcel information.
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: File by July 1, one time only

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

Email us about this program

Frequently asked questions

How much can Iowa Homestead Tax Credit provide in Des Moines, IA?

Up to $20,000.

Who qualifies for Iowa Homestead Tax Credit in Des Moines?

Iowa Homestead Tax Credit is open to homeowners in Des Moines, IA. It has no income limit.

How do I apply for Iowa Homestead Tax Credit in Des Moines, IA?

Apply directly with Iowa Department of Revenue using the official program link on this page or call 515-286-3014. There is no middleman and no fee. Deadline: File by July 1, one time only.

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