FAQ about N.J. Senior Freeze, Homestead Benefit payments

Is the Senior Freeze program still available in New Jersey? I thought the state got rid of the program this year.

The Senior Freeze program, a program that reimburses residents 65 and over and disabled residents for property tax increases and mobile home park site fees, was eliminated earlier this year but was then reactivated when the new state budget was adopted in the fall. To qualify, the homeowner must have made less than $91,505 in 2019.

When do Senior Freeze reimbursement checks arrive?

Senior Freeze reimbursement checks started going out to seniors and disabled residents on about Oct. 15. Checks will continue to be mailed as residents apply for the program.

What is the deadline to apply for the Senior Freeze program?

The deadline to apply for the Senior Freeze program has been extended. The deadline for reimbursement for the 2019 tax year is Dec. 31. For more information and to see if you are eligible for the program, call 800-882-6597 or visit the New Jersey Department of Treasury website.

What is the Homestead Benefit program?

The Homestead Benefit program provides property tax relief to eligible homeowners. For most homeowners, the benefit is distributed to your municipality in the form of a credit, which reduces your property taxes. The program is open to homeowners of all ages who meet certain income and residency requirements.

When will my tax bill be credited with the Homestead Benefit?

Homestead Benefit credits that were not paid this year will show up on property tax bills for May of 2021. The credit typically is split between the quarterly tax bills in May and November, but next year it will appear as one payment.

For questions about the program, call the New Jersey Homestead Benefit Hotline at 888-238-1233. For information about how to file an application, visit the New Jersey Treasury Department website.