A viral YouTube video using artificial intelligence is tricking older homeowners into believing Congress passed a law giving them major property tax savings. It didn't.

Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano confirmed Aug. 4 that no federal legislation, stimulus program or government form called the "Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request" exists. The video directs viewers to call their county auditor and request the fake form "as mandated by federal law."

"There is no recently passed federal legislation or federal form called the 'Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request,'" Stinziano said. "We encourage residents to rely on official government sources and contact our office directly when they have questions about legitimate property tax relief programs."

What the scam looks like

The video uses AI-generated content to appear credible, promising large tax savings for senior homeowners. It does not direct viewers to any official government website. The Auditor's Office has received a spike in calls and emails from residents asking for the nonexistent form, and some became frustrated after learning the claims were false.

The office warns Dublin-area residents: do not pay anyone for access to supposed government forms, and do not provide personal information through unofficial websites.

What's actually real

Ohio does offer legitimate property tax relief. The Homestead Exemption is available to qualifying homeowners age 65 or older, those who are permanently and totally disabled, qualifying disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses. Dublin-area residents can find official information at auditor.franklincountyohio.gov/homestead or by calling 614-525-HOME (4663).

Separately, Ohio House Bill 479 authorized a one-time, state-funded property tax credit for eligible Homestead Exemption recipients. The credit, drawn from $350 million reserved statewide, is estimated at $450 to $500 per recipient and will appear on first-half property tax bills in early 2027. Current Homestead Exemption recipients do not need to file a separate application. The exact amount will be determined after county auditors certify the number of eligible recipients statewide.