Tax FAQs

Q:        Who must file a City of Lakewood tax return?  

A:        All resident individuals 18 years of age and over, non-residents who own rental property or conduct business in Lakewood, and resident and non-resident businesses that operate or have an office within the city limits must file a City of Lakewood tax return, even if no income is earned or no tax is due.

Q:        How can I pay my tax balance?  

A:        Acceptable forms of payment include cash, check, money order, debit card, and credit card. You may pay in person during regular business hours, by mail, or over the phone.  

Q:        What are the Tax Division’s regular hours of operation? 

A:        The City of Lakewood – Division of Tax is open 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Q:        What is the Tax Division’s contact information?

A:        The Division of Tax is located at 12805 Detroit Ave., Suite One, Lakewood, OH 44107.  The Division’s phone number is (216) 529-6620.  The Division’s fax number is (216) 529-6099.  The Division’s email address is taxdept@lakewoodoh.net. 

Q:        Are retirees or disabled individuals required to file a Lakewood tax return?  

A:        Yes. Retirees and disabled individuals with no taxable income will need to file an exemption and supply the Division of Tax with a copy of their annual benefits statement.

Q:        Do residents who rent need to file a Lakewood tax return?  

A:        Yes. The tax collected by the City of Lakewood is based on income and residency status, not on property ownership.

Q:        What is the City of Lakewood’s tax rate?  

A:        Lakewood’s tax rate is one point five (1.5%) percent.

Q:        Do I receive credit for taxes paid to other cities?  

A:        Residents receive a credit of zero point five (.5%) percent for taxes paid to other cities.

Q:        What is the due date for the City of Lakewood’s tax return?  

A:        The due date matches the Federal tax filing due date for individuals and businesses.

Q:        Can the tax office help me prepare the City of Lakewood tax return?  

A:        Yes. Auditors from the Division of Tax are available to prepare your INDIVIDUAL tax return for you free of charge. No appointment is necessary.

Q:        Are lottery/gambling winnings taxable?  

A:        Yes, on winnings over $600.00.  

Q:        Does your office handle property taxes?  

A:        No. The Cuyahoga County property tax office is located in the Administration Building in downtown Cleveland. Their address is 2079 East Ninth (9^th) Street Cleveland, OH 44115. Their phone number is (216) 443-7010.

Q:        Can you answer questions concerning Federal or State taxes?   

A:        No. Any inquiries regarding Federal or State taxes should be directed to either the IRS or the State of Ohio, respectively.

Q:        Can you answer my questions about my new real estate valuation and real estate taxes?   

A:        No. The City of Lakewood is not involved in the real estate valuation and real estate tax assessments. The Cuyahoga County Fiscal Officer is responsible to see that every parcel of land and the buildings in Cuyahoga County are appraised and assessed for tax purposes. State law requires the county to conduct a reappraisal every six (6) years; and update every three (3) years; and a valuation of improvements based upon building permits received from each city annually. For further information contact the Cuyahoga County Fiscal Officer at  (216) 443-7100.