12.31.24 Executive recommends extending Senior Property TC deadline
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 31, 2024
Jackson County Executive recommends extension for Senior Property Tax Credit application deadline
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. announced today his recommendation to extend the application deadline for the Senior Property Tax Credit Program, which has been an overwhelming success since its launch earlier this year.
The initiative provides critical financial relief to senior homeowners by offering property tax credits to help ease the burden of rising costs. With the current deadline upon us, County Executive White is calling on the Legislature to approve an extension to Monday, June 30, 2025, allowing additional time for eligible seniors to apply.
"If we have the chance to ease the tax burden on our seniors and provide them with resources they need to live happier, healthier lives in the comfort of their own homes, it's our responsibility to act,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “We must ensure everyone has access to the largest tax cut in the county's history."
“Extending the application deadline is the right thing to do because this program is a historic investment in our community, delivering meaningful relief to thousands of seniors who deserve our support,” said Jackson County Legislature Chair Jeanie Lauer, 5th District. “The Legislature is dedicated to collaborating with the County Executive to make this extension a reality and to advancing programs that enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
Jackson County is one of the first in the state to approve, implement and accept applications for this program, which “freezes” the property tax bill for homeowners aged 62 and older. Since its launch, the program has received applications from more than 20,000 senior residents, with an impressive 94% approval rate, underscoring its efficiency and transformative impact.
The recommendation aligns with County Executive White’s ongoing commitment to serve and support the senior population. He recently championed the voter-approved Jackson County Seniors Count initiative, which provides dedicated funding to expand essential programs for older adults. These include strengthening services like Meals on Wheels, providing sustainable support for home safety repairs such as wheelchair ramps, and increasing access to reliable transportation for seniors.
If the Legislature approves an application deadline extension, eligible seniors who were 62 and older as of December 31, 2024, and did not apply, can now apply up until June 30, 2025 to secure 2024 as their baseline year, and have their property tax bill frozen in the future at the 2024 amount. Approved applicants will see the tax credit reflected on their 2025 property tax bills. Once approved, seniors are not required to reapply for future years as long as they remain eligible.
“This program for our senior residents provides much-needed financial stability and budget certainty for our seniors during a time when every dollar counts,” said Jackson County Director of Collection Scott Lakin. “I recommend all eligible seniors who have not already done so to take advantage of our Senior Property Tax Credit program. This application extension recommended by County Executive White provides even more seniors the opportunity to do that.”
County Executive White called on the Legislature to act swiftly, emphasizing the program's impact, stating, “This initiative is transforming the lives of our seniors, and we have a responsibility to make it as accessible as possible. I urge the Legislature to approve the extension so we can continue serving our community and reach seniors who may not have had the opportunity to apply, ensuring no one is left behind.”
For more information on the Senior Property Tax Credit Program, including applications, eligibility criteria, and frequently asked questions, visit the program website at www.jacksongov.org/seniortaxcredit.