This is the first year that senior residents in Greene and Christian counties can take advantage of a property tax break created by a state law passed last year, Senate Bill 190. While there has been some confusion about how the law will be implemented, counties are moving forward with tax freezes and benefits for seniors.
According to information from the Greene County Clerk’s Office, here’s what you need to know to proceed:
How does a tax freeze work?
Currently, state law provides a tax break for eligible older taxpayers by effectively freezing future property tax bills at the amount of tax due in the year they became eligible.
Future property tax bills will be credited with any new taxes that exceed the “frozen” portion of the bill, rather than being refunded with a tax credit, so eligible seniors won’t have to pay anything extra.
Who is eligible for the Senior Citizen Property Tax Credit?
According to the regulations, only those who are eligible for a Social Security pension and who are the registered owners of their homes or have an equitable interest in such homes and are liable to pay real estate taxes on such homes can claim the tax credit.
A “homestead” must be a principal residence. Taxpayers may not claim more than one principal residence. There are no limits on property assessments or deductions.
How do I apply for the Senior Citizen Property Tax Exemption?
The Greene County application is available online at the County Clerk’s website or in person at the office. The application must be completed with all required documentation and signed in front of a notary public.
Applications for eligible taxpayers in Greene County can be submitted in person or mailed to the Greene County Clerk’s Office, 940 N. Boonville Ave., Room 113. Completed and notarized applications and documentation can also be submitted electronically by email at propertytaxcredit@greenecountymo.gov.
Applications must be submitted by September 30. Once submitted, your application will undergo an evaluation process to confirm eligibility. Once the evaluation process is complete, you will be notified whether your application has been accepted or not.
What do I need to apply?
Copies of the following documents must be attached to your application:
- Proof of Identification: Birth certificate, driver’s license, or state/federal photo ID.
- Proof of Ownership: A document proving you are the owner of the property or showing that you have legal or equitable rights to the property. If you need help finding information to meet this requirement, contact the Greene County Recorder of Deeds.
- Proof of Tax Liability: A copy of the property tax receipt for the most recent year for the parcel. Past tax statements and receipts are available at Greene County Tax Collector’s Website Name or address
- A copy of your Social Security Benefit Confirmation or most recent Social Security statement. You can request a confirmation from the Social Security Administration, but your most recent statement is your year-end Form SSA-1099 provided by the Social Security Administration.
What will change?
The gap left by SB 190 is Senate Bill 756The bill is currently awaiting Governor Mike Parson’s signature. One of the main changes the new bill makes to the process is that it will now cover all holders over the age of 62, not just those who qualify for Social Security benefits. Currently, the process excludes some occupations that are not eligible for Social Security benefits, such as teachers, public servants, and others.
Greene County Tax Collector Allen Isett said the process is now set by SB 190, which is law. If signed by Parson, SB 756 would take effect Aug. 28, giving people being added to the eligibility pool one month to submit applications before the deadline of Sept. 30. He said discussions are underway to allow for flexibility when the new law goes into effect, but that there are no changes to the application process at this time.
more:Missouri lawmakers are working on amending a 2023 law that would freeze property taxes for seniors.
Christian County
Christian County seniors will apply using a similar process as Greene County seniors, and the application will include the same requirements, except Christian County seniors’ applications must be submitted by June 30. The last day to accept applications is June 28.
Applications can be picked up and submitted in person or mailed to the Collection Office located at 100 W. Church St. Room 101, Ozark, Missouri. Applications are also available online. Collector’s website.
Marta Mieze covers local government for the News-Leader. If you have feedback, tips or story ideas, please contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com.
