MORRIS COUNTY — In light of the affordability struggles many homeowners are currently facing in New Jersey, Senator Joe Pennacchio is strongly encouraging all eligible residents to apply for the Senior Freeze Property Tax Relief Program, before the October 31, 2018 deadline.
Pennacchio noted that more than 140,000 seniors currently use the Senior Freeze property tax relief program in New Jersey.
“Our seniors have paid more than their fair share of taxes,” Pennacchio (R-26) said. “Retirees in New Jersey who are living on a fixed income often struggle to make ends meet. The Senior Freeze Program places $204.4 million back in the pockets of New Jersey residents, ensuring these homeowners can stay with their families in the state they call home.”
Under the Senior Freeze Program, eligible senior and disabled homeowners with incomes up to $70,000 are reimbursed for increases in property taxes compared to their first year of eligibility in the program.
Currently, the program is expected to provide benefits averaging $222 to new recipients and benefits averaging $1,408 to continuing recipients.
Eligible homeowners must:
- Be over the age of 65 or receiving Social Security Disability benefits
- Have lived in New Jersey for at least last ten years
- Have owned a home for last three years
- Have paid the full amount of property taxes on your home
- Live below the require income threshold for eligibility
“I urge all eligible homeowners to reach out to your local municipal or Legislative office if you need any help applying for this vital property tax relief program,” Pennacchio said. “The deadline to apply is October 31, 2018. These are your golden years, you deserve to enjoy them.”
Instructions on How to Apply for the Senior Freeze Property Tax Relief Program
- To ask questions or to order an application: 1-800-882-6597 (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except State holidays)
- To check the status of a filed application: 1-800-882-6597
- To listen to information: 1-800-323-4400
- In-person assistance at Taxation Regional Information Centers (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except State holidays): www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation/organization/ts-regional.shtml
- Online information: www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation/ptr/index.shtml
