The County Auditor serves as the agent for the Tax Commissioner of Ohio in the administration of the Ohio estate tax. Beginning 1/1/2001, the following summarizes statutory and administrative rule changes impacting the regulation of estate tax in Ohio:

* The interest rate for 2001 on late payments of estate tax and refunds made after the due date is set at 9%

* For dates of death on or after January 1, 2001, an estate with gross assets valued at $200,000 or less is not required to file an Ohio estate tax return.

* Beginning January 1, 2001, regardless of the decedent’s date of death, the tax commissioner has authorized an automatic, six-month extension of time to file the Ohio Estate Tax Return. However, any payments made after nine months from the date of death should be charged statutory interest.

* The tax commissioner no longer requires an audit of a safe deposit box upon the death of the owner.

* Beginning January 1, 2001, the county auditor is no longer required to issue a consent to transfer for accounts $25,000 or less.