Property Tax Exemption for Seniors In Kansas

In Kansas, seniors have the opportunity to receive property tax relief through the SAFESR program, which provides a refund of 75% of the property taxes paid on their principal residence, subject to specific eligibility criteria.

Overview of the SAFESR Program

The Senior Property Tax Relief for Low Income Seniors (SAFESR) program is specifically designed to aid eligible seniors in Kansas by offering a refund on their property taxes. Below are the essential details:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Claimants must be at least 65 years old.
• The appraised value of the home must not exceed $350,000.
• Household income must fall within the program limits, including all Social Security benefits received during the year.
• Seniors with delinquent property taxes are ineligible to apply for this refund.

Refund Amount:

Eligible participants can receive a refund amounting to 75% of the property taxes actually paid on their principal residence. For the tax year, this refund is calculated based on the total property tax paid, encompassing both halves of the tax due. The maximum refund amount is capped at $700.

Application Process:

To apply for the SAFESR refund, seniors are required to complete Form K-40PT and submit it to the Kansas Department of Revenue. Even if they usually don’t file a tax return, seniors must fill out this form to qualify for the refund.

It is important to file the application by the deadline set by the Kansas Department of Revenue, which typically occurs after the property taxes have been paid.

Additional Information:

If a senior passes away prior to filing a claim, their heirs can still be eligible for a prorated refund by selecting the “decedent box” on the application form.

For further details, seniors can visit the official Kansas Department of Revenue website or consult local tax offices for guidance on the application process and to verify eligibility.