Homeowners may qualify for property tax reduction

Idaho homeowners could qualify for some relief from their property taxes. Idaho’s Property Tax Reduction program reduces property taxes on an eligible homeowner’s primary Idaho residence and up to one acre of land by as much as $1,320.

“Many homeowners think you have to be 65 before you can apply, but that’s not the case,” said Pam Waters, coordinator of the Property Tax Reduction program for the Idaho State Tax Commission, in a news release. “You may be eligible at any age if you meet certain criteria.”

To qualify, a homeowner must be in one of the following categories by Jan. 1, 2019:

- Recognized as disabled by the Social Security Administration, Railroad Retirement Board, Federal Civil Service, a public employee retirement system not covered by these agencies, or by Veterans Affairs

- Widow(er)

- Blind

- Fatherless or motherless child under 18 years old

- Former prisoner of war

- Age 65 or older

The program requires a homeowner to have no more than $30,450 in total income in 2018. The homeowner must also must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident and own and live in their home by April 14, 2019.

An application for property tax reduction can be found on the Tax Commission’s website or from the county assessor. Applications must be filed with the county assessor by Monday, April 15, 2019.

For more information contact the Kootenai County Assessor’s Office: 208-446-1500, or call the Tax Commission at 800-334-7756 or visit the Idaho Tax Commission’s Property Tax Reduction page: tax.idaho.gov/i-1052.cfm