After the sticker shock and subsequent uproar over property tax increases, in March, Jackson County, MO, introduced the Senior Property Tax Credit Program, which aims to assist eligible residents in managing property tax payments and ultimately keeping them in their homes.
The program freezes property tax bills at 2024 levels for eligible senior residents. While the program doesn’t lower seniors’ property tax bills this year, it keeps those in the program from getting higher bills in the future and possibly being priced out of their homes.
“This initiative offers significant benefits, ensuring financial relief and stability for eligible individuals,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White in March. “We encourage qualified residents to take advantage of the opportunity presented by this valuable program.”
New updates to the Senior Property Tax Credit Program expand access to even more seniors. Gov. Mike Parson signed Senate Bill 756 into law, and officials say it has streamlined the program’s eligibility requirements.
“This new legislation simplifies the application process for our senior residents, making it easier for them to access available property tax relief assistance,” said White.
Changes to the program include:
- Age requirement instead of Social Security verification: Eligible residents no longer need to qualify for or provide proof of Social Security retirement benefits. The new age requirement is 62 and older, with applicants needing only to provide proof of age using a government-issued document with a date of birth.
- No market value limitations: The county can no longer require an eligible resident’s property market value to be less than $550,000 to apply.
“While state law has mandated changes to our program, residents who have already applied for the property tax credit do not need to re-apply,” said Jackson County Dept. of Collection Director Scott Lakin.
Eligibility criteria now include:
- Jackson County property ownership
- Age 62 or older
- One primary residence occupied by the eligible resident
The deadline for first-time applications and supporting documentation is Dec. 31. Once approved, participants are not required to renew their application annually, but the Dept. of Collection reserves the right to conduct periodic audits and reviews of continued eligibility.
“I am proud to announce that our team is fully staffed and ready to administer the program efficiently, ensuring the best possible customer service to assist residents with the process,” Lakin added.
Applications reflecting the new eligibility requirements are available online at jacksongov.org/seniortaxcredit or in paper form at county collection department locations at the Jackson County Courthouse in downtown Kansas City and the historic Truman Courthouse in Independence.
Those approved for the program this year will see the tax credit benefit on their bill in 2025, and for each year they qualify into the future.
For additional info on the application process, eligibility criteria, and frequently asked questions, individuals are encouraged to visit the program website. For further inquiries, applicants can email SeniorApplication@jacksongov.org or call 816-881-3232.
