Classification will affect 2026 property taxes and refund eligibility
All new property owners or qualified relatives who changed residences during the past year and use the residence for homestead before Dec. 31, 2025 must apply for homestead status with their county assessor by Dec. 31.
Property owners or qualified relatives who want to classify property as homestead that was not classified as homestead in the past must apply with the Dakota County Assessor’s Office to receive homestead for property taxes payable in 2026.
For agricultural and residential property, a qualifying relative includes the child, grandchild, sibling or parent of the owner or owner’s spouse. For residential property, a qualifying relative also includes the owner’s uncle, aunt, nephew or niece.
Once the homestead classification has been granted, no further applications are necessary, unless requested by the county assessor. Only new applicants must file if they have not already done so.
Property owners who sell their home, move or no longer qualify for the homestead classification are required to notify the county assessor within 30 days of the homestead’s change in status.
For applications or more information, visit www.dakotacounty.us and search homestead application or call Dakota County Assessing Services at 651-438-4200.