As tax season approaches, Idaho homeowners are encouraged to take advantage of the Property Tax Reduction (PTR) program, commonly referred to as the Circuit Breaker, and the Veterans Property Tax Benefit to reduce their property tax bills. These programs offer significant savings for eligible applicants.
Applications are currently being accepted and processed and the final day to submit is April 15, 2024. Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for these benefits because there may be some required documents that will take time to find.
The Canyon County Assessor’s office stands ready to assist residents throughout the application process, providing personalized guidance and support. The dedicated staff can assist with phone applications and ensure all necessary documents are submitted accurately and on time.
Applying for these programs is straightforward and accessible. Homeowners can choose to apply in person, over the phone, or via the online application portal, following simple step-by-step instructions.
The PTR program offers relief to qualified homeowners based on their total household income from the previous year. Eligible participants can receive reductions of up to $1,500 on property taxes for their primary residence and up to one acre of land. It’s important to note that certain fees like solid waste and irrigation charges are not eligible for reduction under this program, and no liens are placed on properties.
Individuals might qualify for this program in 2024 if all of these apply:
- Your total 2023 income, after deducting medical expenses, was $37,000 or less.
- You were 65 or older, blind, widowed, disabled, a former POW or hostage, or a motherless or fatherless child under 18 years old.
- You owned and lived in a home in Idaho that was your primary residence before April 15, 2024.
- The property must have a current homeowner’s exemption.
- The home can be a mobile home.
Contact Canyon County Assessor’s office for more information or if you have any questions regarding these requirements.
Additionally, 100 percent service-connected disabled veterans in Idaho can benefit from the Veterans Property Tax Benefit, which provides up to $1,500 in property tax reduction on their primary residence and up to one acre of land. Unlike the PTR program, there is no income limit for this benefit, and it also does not place liens on properties.
To qualify for the Veterans Property Tax Benefit, applicants must meet specific criteria, including having an active Homeowner’s Exemption and being rated or paid at 100 percent service-connected disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as of January 1 of the application year. Required documentation includes a current letter from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs confirming the veteran’s disability status.
Applications for both programs are currently open and can be submitted between January 1 and April 15 each year. Homeowners are reminded that an annual application is required for both programs; they do not automatically renew.
Presently, only about 40 percent of the expected Canyon County residents have applied, and those who have previously applied should receive a letter in the mail soon reminding them to reapply.
For more information and to begin the application process, homeowners can call (208) 454-7431 or visit https://idahotap.gentax.com/TAP/_/. Don’t miss out on potential savings—apply today!