Did my local tax office hack me?

[Sathya Ram]

I was living in my house for 5 years. Due to a new job, I moved to a new city in July. My tenant's lease started July 26th 2023. I got a letter from my county tax person on Sept 13 (see below). I don't understand how this is possible. What is especially troubling is that they have a photograph copy of the signed lease which my tenant had signed and texted back to me. So it's basically A4 sized printouts of the screenshots of the signed lease that my tenant had texted me.  The only explanation would be that my Tenant sent the county my lease. But why would she do that? Also, since I was in the house for the majority of 2023, I should still be able to claim homestead exemption. If I decide to not renew the lease, and move back into my house in July 2024, then I can continue claiming homestead for 2024 as well right?


Dear Homeowner,

It has come to our attention that you may be receiving the Homestead Act 50 on the above-listed
parcel which is currently not being used as your primary residence. We have also included a
copy of a lease showing a current rental agreement. You can not receive an Act 50 on a
parcel you are renting to another occupant.

According the State Statue of this Act, you are only entitled to receive this tax relief on your
primary residence and no other property. Any person who knowingly files an application which
is false to any material matter shall be subject to payment of taxes due, plus interest, plus penalty
and shall be subject to prosecution as a misdemeanor of the third degree and a fine up to $2,500.
Please see the enclosed form to remove the Homestead Act if you no longer meet the
qualification. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact...

[Theresa Harris]

Who is paying utilities?  It is possible that the tenant had to show proof of occupancy to get the utility bills in their name and if any go through the city, then they have a record of that.