A viral YouTube video is tricking older homeowners in New Albany, Gahanna and across Franklin County into calling the auditor's office to request a federal tax relief form that does not exist.

Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano issued a consumer alert Aug. 4, warning residents about the AI-generated video, which falsely claims Congress passed a law giving seniors significant property tax savings. The video directs viewers to call their county auditor and ask for a "Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request" form "as mandated by federal law."

No such form, law or program exists.

"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."

The auditor's office said it has fielded a surge of calls and emails from residents asking for the bogus form. Some callers have grown frustrated upon learning the video's claims are false.

Stinziano urged residents not to pay anyone for access to supposed government forms and not to provide personal information through unofficial websites.

Legitimate tax relief through Ohio HB 479

While the viral video is a scam, real tax relief is on the way for some homeowners. Ohio House Bill 479 recently authorized a one-time, state-funded property tax reduction for eligible Homestead Exemption recipients. The credit is expected to appear on first-half 2027 tax bills, with estimates placing the reduction at roughly $450 to $500 per recipient.

Homeowners already enrolled in the Homestead Exemption do not need to file a separate application. The credit will be applied automatically.

The Homestead Exemption is available to Ohio homeowners who are 65 or older, permanently and totally disabled, qualifying disabled veterans or certain surviving spouses. The income threshold is $41,000 in modified adjusted gross income, according to the Franklin County Auditor's Office.

How to check eligibility

The auditor's office cautioned residents to be skeptical of online content promising large tax savings or government payments, particularly when it does not direct viewers to an official government website.

Residents with questions about the Homestead Exemption or HB 479 can visit the Franklin County Auditor's Homestead Exemption page or call 614-525-HOME (4663).