Property Tax Exemptions for Seniors

photo courtesy CreditDebitPro.com

It’s no secret – 2018 property taxes have increased substantially over last year. While rising taxes are a tough pill to swallow, Washington’s property taxes rank in the lower half nationwide, coming in at 29th. New Jersey is #1 and surprisingly Hawaii is the lowest.

Did you know property tax exemptions are available for seniors? State law provides property tax exemption and deferral programs for senior citizens and disabled persons. You or someone you know may be eligible for a tax exemption or deferral. The application process is fairly simple; there are income and other qualifications:

annual household income of $40,000 or less
own and occupy a house, condo/co-op or mobile home
61 years of age by December 31st of the previous year, or
retired because of disability, or
veteran with a 100% service-connected disability
you are a widow or widower or state registered domestic partner whose spouse or domestic partner had an exemption at the time of death

Many seniors and disabled persons are not aware of these tax exemption and deferral programs. Taking advantage of a tax savings could offer long term financial relief and make it possible to stay in a home for a longer period of time.

For more information or to apply for a 2019 property tax exemption contact King County at 206-296-3920 or visit the taxpayer assistance website at
https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor/TaxpayerAssistance/TaxRelief.aspx