Property tax exemption for seniors
By Lynn Zahorik
Douglas County taxpayers who are 65 years or older as of January 1 may qualify for an attractive tax exemption. The Homestead Senior Property Tax Exemption was created through the state of Colorado for senior citizen taxpayers who have owned their property for at least 10 consecutive years and occupy the property as their primary residence.
The exemption reduces the actual taxable value of qualified residential property by 50 percent of the first $200,000 of taxable value. Once approved, the exemption remains in place until there is a change in ownership. An applicant or married couple can apply for the exemption on only one property. If attempts are made to apply for the exemption on multiple properties, the exemption will be denied on all properties.
Douglas County Assessor Lisa Frizell encouraged Douglas County residents to apply to the program if they qualify. “Since we process the applications locally, we are able to turn them around quickly. Residents may fax, mail or hand deliver their applications. Once we receive and approve the application, a postcard is sent out to notify the resident of their approval.”
Applications will be accepted through July 15, but it is recommended you apply early. Because our population in Douglas County is aging, the number of applications is dramatically increasing each year. In 2015, 7,903 residents were approved to benefit from this program.
For further information on the Homestead Senior Property Tax Exemption program and to access application forms, visit www.douglas.co.us/assessor or call 303-660-7450.
