New Jersey Expands Senior Freeze Program to Include More Residents

Higher Income Limits and Simplified Residency Requirements Introduced for 2023

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Department of the Treasury's Division of Taxation has initiated the mailing of applications for the 2023 Senior Freeze Property Tax Reimbursement program, announcing significant expansions to the program's eligibility criteria. This year's updates, which include a substantial increase in the income eligibility limit and a simplified residency requirement for new applicants, are designed to extend the program's benefits to more seniors and disabled residents within the state.

The Senior Freeze program, a critical component of New Jersey's property tax relief efforts, offers reimbursements to eligible seniors and disabled residents for increases in property taxes or mobile home park site fees on their principal residences. Reflecting a commitment to supporting older and disabled New Jerseyans, the recent legislative changes — part of Governor Phil Murphy's FY23 budget proposal — have raised the income eligibility limit to $150,000, up from $99,735 in the 2022 season. Additionally, the previous requirement for applicants to have been New Jersey residents for 10 consecutive years has been eliminated, making it easier for newer residents to qualify.

State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio emphasized the program's role in enabling seniors and disabled residents to stay in their communities without the burden of rising property taxes. The enhancements to the Senior Freeze program aim to provide greater financial stability to more New Jersey residents, allowing them to maintain their proximity to family, friends, and the amenities offered by the Garden State.

To be eligible for the 2023 Senior Freeze, applicants must meet several criteria, including age or disability requirements, homeownership or lease requirements for mobile home sites since December 31, 2019, or earlier, timely payment of property taxes for 2022 and 2023, and adherence to the specified income limits for 2022 and 2023.

The filing deadline for the 2023 applications is set for October 31, 2024. Residents who have not received their application booklet by March 15 are encouraged to contact the New Jersey Division of Taxation's Senior Freeze Property Tax Reimbursement Information Line for assistance. For the first time, qualifying residents can also opt to apply online through a direct filing service launched by the Treasury in 2023, further simplifying the application process.

These updates to the Senior Freeze program underscore New Jersey's ongoing commitment to providing tax relief and support to its older and disabled populations, ensuring they can afford to live comfortably in their homes amidst rising costs. Treasurer Muoio also reminds residents to explore other property tax relief programs offered by the state, providing a comprehensive suite of options to alleviate financial pressures.