New Jersey Seniors Can Get Up to $6,500 Off Property Taxes, Application Deadline Oct. 31

Starting in 2026, New Jersey will cut property taxes by up to $6,500 for its senior residents through the Stay NJ program. The state aims to offset its 2.23 percent property tax rate, the steepest in the nation.

Stay NJ targets homeowners aged 65 and up who've kept their primary residence through 2024. Those with incomes under $500,000 can claim back half their property tax payments, maxing out at $6,500.

Officials have streamlined applications into one system for three key programs: Stay NJ, ANCHOR, and Senior Freeze. Applications must reach the state by Oct. 31.

Essex County stands out with its tax burden. In Millburn, homeowners shell out $25,407 on average. Five other towns — Montclair, Essex Fells, Glen Ridge, Maplewood and South Orange — trail close behind.

The ANCHOR program splits its aid based on housing status and income from 2024. Aid ranges from $450 to $1,750, with caps set at $250,000 for owners and $150,000 for renters.

For older and disabled residents, Senior Freeze steps in. It targets those earning under $168,268 in 2024 and $163,505 in 2023. To qualify for tax increase reimbursements, applicants must have owned their homes since late 2021.

The state requires identification for all claims. Some might need extra proof of income or residency. Submit materials online to the New Jersey Department of the Treasury or mail in the PAS-1 form.

Local Essex County towns want to make this easier. Montclair, Essex Fells, Roseland, and West Orange have created simple guides about eligibility and application steps.

Combined benefits from all three programs could reach $1,750 per household, states the New Jersey Department of the Treasury. Don't wait: the October 31 deadline applies to everyone.