More than 55,000 Idahoans qualify for Idaho’s Property Tax Reduction Program

BOISE, IDAHO – February 21, 2014 – (RealEstateRama) — According to AARP research, just under half of the more than 55,000 Idahoans eligible for a reduction in their property taxes actually apply for this discount. That’s why the Idaho State Tax Commission and AARP Idaho want to make more people aware of the benefit that’s available to low-income seniors and others who qualify.

“This program makes a difference in people’s lives,” said Pam Waters, who oversees the Property Tax Reduction Program for the Tax Commission. “And we want to spread the word so more people can get help paying their property taxes.”

The Idaho Property Tax Reduction (Circuit Breaker) Program reduces property taxes on a homeowner’s primary Idaho residence and up to one acre of land by as much as $1,320.

Applicants for the property tax reduction program can have no more than $28,700 in total 2013 income. They must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. They must also be in at least one of the following categories as of Jan. 1, 2014:

Age 65 or older
Blind
Widow(er) of any age
Former prisoner of war or hostage
Disabled (as recognized by the Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, Railroad Retirement Board, or Federal Civil Service)

“Most people know someone who’s eligible for property tax reduction,” said AARP Idaho State Director Mark Estess. “It’s important that eligible property owners use this valuable program, and we are proud to partner with the Idaho Tax Commission to increase awareness across the state.”

Eligible homeowners can get an application for property tax reduction on the Tax Commission’s website or from their county assessor. Applications must be filed with a homeowner’s county assessor by April 15.

For more information, contact any county assessor’s office in Idaho or call the Tax Commission at (208) 334-7736 in the Boise area or toll free at (800) 334-7756.