For many years, Washington state has provided a property tax reduction to older adults and veterans with disabilities to make it easier for those on fixed incomes to remain in their homes. Unfortunately, due to rapidly rising home values and property taxes, these programs didn’t help enough of our neighbors. That’s why regional leaders and groups like the AARP Washington asked state leaders for help, and in 2019 they responded. Did you know that the Human Services Department, through its Aging and Disability Services Division, works with the Seattle-King County Advisory Council for Aging & Disability Services to publish a monthly newsletter aimed at keeping older people and adults with disabilities active, connected and making a difference? Each issue is full of information, tips, event announcements, and more…
King County Assessor John Wilson recently shared that Washington state has provided a property tax reduction to older adults and veterans with disabilities to make it easier for those on fixed incomes to remain in their homes. Unfortunately, due to rapidly rising home values and property taxes, these programs didn’t help enough of our neighbors. That’s why regional leaders and groups like the AARP Washington asked state leaders for help, and in 2019 they responded.
The legislature has raised the income threshold for the property tax exemption program, making tens of thousands more people eligible for help. In King County, if you are 61 years or older, own your home, and have an annual income of $58,423 or less (after certain medical or long-term care expenses), you may be eligible.
King County’s brand-new Property Tax Relief portal is now live at taxrelief.kingcounty.gov. You can watch informative videos and read qualification and application details on this site. Click on “Documents you’ll need” for a handy checklist. To apply online, click on “Sign in to apply.” For more information, e-mail Exemptions.Assessments@kingcounty.gov or call the King County Assessor’s office at 206-296-3920. A booklet is also available (click here).
