Introduction
Property taxes can be a significant burden for low-income seniors and people with disabilities in Pierce County, North Dakota. Many struggle to afford rising property taxes, often having to make difficult financial decisions on utilities and even facing food insecurity. However, there is good news. The Washington State Legislature has recently expanded the eligibility criteria for property tax exemptions, providing relief to those in need. In this article, we will discuss the eligibility requirements, the application process, and the benefits of the property tax exemption program in Pierce County.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the property tax exemption program, you must meet certain criteria. Firstly, you must be a homeowner who turned 61 or older during or before the previous year. Alternatively, you can qualify if you are retired from regular gainful employment due to a disability, regardless of age. Additionally, your combined disposable income must be $45,708 or less, and you must have lived in your home for more than six months during the calendar year.
Exemption from Levies
One of the significant advantages of the property tax exemption program is the exemption from excess or special levies that require voter approval. If your annual income is $45,708 or less, you will be exempt from these levies, providing further financial relief.
Freezing Property Value
During the application process, you may be concerned about changes in your property’s value. However, once approved for a property tax exemption, the value of your residence for tax purposes is frozen as of January 1 of the initial application year. Although the market value of your property may still be determined annually, your taxes will be calculated based on the lesser of either the frozen value or the market value.
Determining Eligibility
The eligibility for the property tax exemption program is based on the disposable income you received during the year in which you apply. It is crucial to understand how to calculate disposable income and what deductions are allowable. Detailed information on these calculations can be found on the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer’s website at piercecountywa.gov/ATR.
Testimonials from Beneficiaries
Many homeowners have already benefitted from the property tax exemption program, bringing relief to their financial situations. One grateful individual who has a disabled daughter shared their positive experience, highlighting the exceptional assistance they received from the Assessor-Treasurer’s office. The staff was incredibly helpful, making the process easier than expected. These testimonials demonstrate the valuable support offered to low-income, retired, and disabled individuals, ensuring they can meet their needs and wants without the fear of losing their homes due to unaffordable property taxes.
Application Process
If you believe you meet the eligibility requirements for the property tax exemption program in Pierce County, there are two convenient ways to apply. You can visit the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer’s website and complete the application online, or you can call the Senior Citizen and People with Disabilities Exemption Hotline at (253) 798-2169 for assistance with the application process.
Conclusion
The property tax exemption program in Pierce County, North Dakota, provides much-needed financial relief to low-income seniors and people with disabilities. The recent changes in eligibility requirements by the Washington State Legislature have widened the scope of this valuable program, ensuring that those in need can afford to stay in their homes and meet their needs without sacrificing other essentials. Eligibility is based on age, income, and property ownership criteria, and the application process is straightforward. If you or someone you know qualifies for this program, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the exemptions available. Contact the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer’s office today, either online or via the hotline, and secure the relief you deserve.
Keywords: Pierce County, North Dakota, property taxes, exemptions, low income seniors, people with disabilities, eligibility, application process, financial relief, frozen property value, disposable income, testimonials, application assistance.