How do I lower my property taxes as a senior?
You lower your property taxes as an older homeowner by applying to your county assessor or treasurer for the senior relief your state offers, which is usually one of four things: a homestead exemption that reduces the taxable value, an assessment freeze, an income-based credit sometimes called a circuit breaker, or a deferral that postpones the tax until the home is sold.
What this means
- This is decided by your state and county, not the federal government, so the names and the age and income cutoffs differ everywhere.
- Most programs begin at age 65, though some start at 61 or 62, and many have an income test.
- A freeze locks the assessed value in place, so rising home prices stop raising your bill even though the tax rate may still change.
- A deferral is not forgiveness. The postponed tax becomes a lien that is paid when the home is sold or transferred.
What to do first
- Call your county assessor or treasurer and ask what senior exemptions, freezes, credits and deferrals exist and what the filing deadline is.
- Start from your state's tax page through the official state tax directory at USA.gov if you do not know which office to call.
- Have last year's tax bill, proof of age, and proof of income ready.
- Ask whether a disability or veteran exemption also applies, since some can be combined.
Senior Property Tax Relief
Homestead exemptions, senior freezes, circuit breakers, and deferrals that can cut or pause your property tax bill.
What you'll need
- Deed or property tax bill
- Proof of age
- Proof that the home is your primary residence
- Proof of income
Deadlines and timing
- Deadlines are strict and are usually early in the year. Missing one normally means waiting a full year.
- Some exemptions must be renewed annually with an income form; others carry over automatically. Ask which yours is.
- Think carefully before choosing a deferral if you plan to leave the home to family, because the lien comes due.
Where to go
- Senior Property Tax Relief: https://www.usa.gov/state-governments
Reviewed by Jason Burns, Editorial Steward · Last verified August 25, 2026
Sources
- State tax agencies · USA.gov
Need help today?
- Shut-off notice in hand: call the number on the bill and ask for a medical hold and a payment plan, then call 211.
- No food today: call 211 or the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 for a same-week food bank or meal.
- In danger: call 911, or reach Adult Protective Services through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
Every program on this site is free to apply for. Anyone who asks you to pay to apply, or to “unlock” a government benefit, is a scam — hang up and call Senior Medicare Patrol or 211.
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