Senior Property Tax Credit Program

In accordance with the current updates to Missouri State Statue 137.1050, Jackson County has now established an application process to set your “frozen” amount this year and bring senior citizens much-needed tax relief on future years tax bills. The program now allows those taxpayers who are 62 years of age or older to receive a credit on future years tax bills that essentially freezes their property taxes on their primary residence to the tax bill amount from the year of application/eligibility. To qualify, taxpayers need to be 62 years of age or older, be the property owner, or have a legal or equitable interest in the home, is liable for the payment of real property taxes on the home and occupy the property as their primary residence. The year of application and eligibility establishes the base tax year amount, and credits appear in the years following.

 

 

Eligibility Requirements

Step 1.Who is eligible?

Applicants must meet the criteria below to qualify.

  1. Is a Jackson County resident.
  2. Is 62 years of age or older.
  3. Is the property owner or has a legal or equitable interest in the home.
  4. Is liable for the payment of real property taxes on the home.
  5. Occupies the property as only primary residence.

 

Step 2.What documents are required to prove eligibility?

1. Proof of Jackson County Primary Residency.

    Examples: Driver's license, voter registration card, utility bill, etc.

2. Proof of age 62 or older.

    Examples: Any government issued I.D. with date of
    birth including driver's license, military I.D., birth
    certificate, etc.

3. Proof of Interest

    If the applicant is not on the deed, documentation
    proving legal interest in the property is required. 
    Examples: Trust or operation agreement

 

 

 

Application & Renewal

Step 1.How do I obtain and submit the application?

Use our easy online form

 

Print and mail or in-person

Download and print the application here(PDF, 167KB) or email a request for application to SeniorApplication@jacksongov.org
Applications are also available at the Kansas City and Independence Collection Department offices.

Once complete, the application form and supporting documentation may be emailed to SeniorApplication@jacksongov.org.

Application materials can also be mailed, submitted in person or placed in exterior drop boxes at either Collection Department office location:

Jackson County Courthouse: 415 E. 12th St. Suite #100, Kansas City, MO 64106 

Historic Truman Courthouse: 112 W. Lexington Ave. Suite #114, Independence, MO 64050.

Step 2.When is the deadline for the initial application?

December 31, 2024 

Step 3.Do I have to renew my application to continue participation in the program?

No, but the Department of Collection does reserve the right to do periodic audits and reviews of continued eligibility. Failure to provide the requested documentation will remove the taxpayer from the program.

Step 4.How do I know if my application has been approved?

Applicants will be notified of approval by email or by mail of approval or if additional information is required. Since applications may be submitted until December 31, 2024, not all applications will be notified prior to the end of this year about their application status. However, any application submitted prior to December 31, will be accepted for consideration for the current tax year.

 

Tax Status & FAQ's

Step 1.How do I know if my application has been approved?

Applicants will be notified of approval by email or by mail of approval or if additional information is required. Since applications may be submitted until December 31, 2024, not all applications will be notified prior to the end of this year about their application status. However, any application submitted prior to December 31, will be accepted for consideration for the current tax year.

Step 2.How can I pay my tax bill while participating in this program?

Program participants can pay their tax bill online, by phone, by mail, or in person

Step 3.Other Frequently Asked Questions:

  • When will the tax credit take effect?

     Your tax amount will freeze at the 2024 amount, so the change will first be
      reflected in your 2025 tax bill
.

  • What if I sell my property and buy a new home?

     A change in ownership or property would require a new application to
     qualify for the program and set a new freeze on the tax bill. 

  • Can I still participate in the Senior Quad Payment Program if I participate in this program?

     Yes. If eligible for both programs, an individual may participate in both
     programs. Visit Senior Quad Payment program page for more
     information.

  • Are all parcels eligible, and what charges are not eligible for the credit?
    Only Ad Valorem (A/V) taxes are eligible for the credit. Additional charges such as special assessments, CIDs/TDDs, energy districts, etc. are not considered as part of the eligible credit amount and are due in full each year regardless of homestead tax credit status. Abated or incentivize parcels are not eligible to also benefit from the homestead property tax credit program in the tax year such homestead is receiving tax abatement or tax increment financing.
  • Do I need my Parcel Number to apply?

     No, it is not mandatory, but it will be helpful for processing and will expedite the approval process.