Property tax relief for residents 55 and older

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. - St. Joseph County is the first of 92 counties in Indiana to create this tax relief initiative.

So far, the county says at last check they've had over 750 applications. 

While they are not sure how many people will qualify, they hope the people that do, take advantage of this.

The bill, passed in November, allows residents 55 or older the ability to apply for a credit that would cap their annual property tax increase to just 2%.

The criteria? There's no income limit, and you must own and have lived in your home for at least 10 years. 

The county is not exactly sure what will happen in 2027 when the bill expires, but it gives some needed relief for people struggling to make ends meet. 

“it's a way of saying thank you, it's a way of getting a little bit of relief for all the good they've done to get the county on good financial footing, so it's not a lot of money, it's something. So, we think anybody who can get a break on their property taxes, appreciates that” said Mark Cantanzarite, District G County Council Representative.   

If you're interested in applying, there is a sign-up session this Thursday, January 11, at the St. Joseph County Library from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

You can also apply here.