Did you know there are several programs in place to help older adults save money on their property and income taxes? Navigating these exemptions, credits, deferrals and work-off programs can be confusing, so the Douglas County Assessor’s Office is providing information to help walk you through the process.
These four programs may be able to save you money now and in the future:
- The Senior Property Tax Exemption can lower your financial burden by exempting 50% of the first $200,000 of your home’s assessed value. Apply for it with your 2025 taxes to see tax savings in 2026.
- The Portable Senior Exemption is for primary residences only. If you have received the Senior Property Tax Exemption previously – but are not currently getting it – this one’s for you. The final application deadline for next year’s taxes is March 15, 2025.
- The Colorado Property Tax Deferral postpones the payment of your property taxes until after selling or settling an estate. The final deadline to apply is April 1, 2025, to see tax savings in 2026.
- The Income-Qualified Senior Housing Income Tax Credit is for folks earning less than $75,000 who don’t use the Senior Property Tax Exemption. Claim it on your 2024 Colorado State Income Tax Return.
- The Douglas County Tax Work-Off Program helps adults 60 years or older give back to the community while reducing out-of-pocket expenses. You can work up to 100 hours in various county offices at a rate of $14.81/hour. The funds pay down any county property taxes that are due. The program has no deadline and applications are always considered.
To get started, use this fact sheet to understand benefits, eligibility requirements and timelines for applications. You can also visit the Douglas County Assessors website for more timely information or contact Assessor Toby Damisch and his team.