State law provides two tax benefit programs for senior citizens and the disabled: property tax exemptions and property tax deferrals. Yet more than 26,000 qualified seniors and disabled persons have yet to register for the exemption, and only 1 in 100 of those eligible for deferrals are currently enrolled. Details of these two programs are provided below. The process of applying is fairly simple.
More information is available at the Greater Maple Valley (425-432-1272) and the Black Diamond (360-886-1011) Community Centers.
Senior Citizens/Disabled Exemption
Qualifications include:
- Annual household income of $40,000 or less
- Own and occupy a house, mobile home, condo or co-op,
- 61 years of age by December 31 of the previous year, or
- Retired because of disability or
- Veteran with a 100% service-connected disability
- You are a widow, or widower, or state registered domestic partner at least 57 years of age whose spouse or state registered domestic partner had an exemption at the time of death
Once qualified, you continue to benefit from the exemption but any change in circumstances must be reported to the assessor to avoid penalties. For information, call 206-296-3920.
To apply for Senior Citizens and Disabled Persons Exemption, complete a Senior Citizen and Disabled Persons Reduction in Property Taxes Application. If you are not currently receiving SSI benefits, you must complete a Proof of Disability Form.
Senior Citizens/Disabled Deferral
If you are 60 or older or are retired because of physical disability and have an income of $45,000 or less, you may qualify for deferral of your property tax liability. Deferred taxes become a lien on your property.
For information, call 206-296-3920 or download an applicationat https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor/TaxpayerAssistance/TaxRelief.aspx.
