By Cindy Richey, CFP®, CDFA®
In October, the state of Missouri expanded eligibility for the senior property tax credit program. Under the new rules, all homeowners over the age of 62 are eligible to have their property taxes for their primary residence frozen at 2024 levels starting in 2025.
Action is required to take advantage of this tax benefit. The program is administered on a county-by-county basis, so check with your county of residence for more specifics.
Eligibility requirements are generally the same for counties that have adopted the new rules. The homeowner must be age 62 or older, occupy the property only as a primary residence, and be liable for the payment of real estate taxes on the home. The applicant must have a legal or equitable interest in the home. If the applicant is not listed on the deed, documentation proving legal interest in the property may be required. For example, if the property is owned by a trust, a copy of the trust may be required.
Most counties have an online application process which allows users to upload required documents and sign the form.
Here are highlights for several counties in the Kansas City metro area. Please note that the deadline for Jackson County residents is coming up quickly on December 31.
Jackson County
Website: Senior Property Tax Credit Program - Jackson County MO
Initial application period: Now to December 31, 2024
Ongoing renewal: Renewal application not required, but the County reserves the right to audit and verify continued eligibility.
Platte County
Website: Senior Citizens Tax Credit - Platte County Missouri
Initial application period: Now to May 15, 2025
Ongoing renewal: A renewal application is required annually and can be submitted from October 1 to December 31 (beginning in 2025 for 2026 taxes).
Clay County
Website: Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief | Clay County, MO
Initial application period: January 1 to March 31, 2025
Ongoing renewal: A renewal affidavit is required annually and can be submitted from January 1 to March 31 (beginning in 2026 for 2026 taxes).
We are here to help! Please reach out to your advisory team if you have any questions or need assistance completing your application.
Some information for this article was provided by The Kansas City Star.
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