Dear friends and neighbors,
I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you. On Friday, the Washington state Senate passed HB 1355 on a unanimous vote after also passing unanimously in the House. This bill expands the qualification for the property tax assistance program for senior citizens, disabled individuals, and qualifying veterans. The property tax assistance program is designed to help those who are most in need by providing financial assistance to cover the cost of property taxes. By increasing the income thresholds for eligibility, more people will now be able to access this vital program. This means that seniors, individuals with disabilities, and qualifying veterans who were previously ineligible due to their income level will now be able to receive much-needed help.
Under this bill, homeowners can get a break on their property taxes if they are at least 61 years old, unable to work because of a disability or meet one of several other qualifications.
Washington is facing a housing crisis and this legislation provides one of the most efficient and effective things we can do to keep people in their home. We’ve heard from too many senior homeowners that that they can’t afford the ever-increasing property taxes and they fear that they could lose their home.
This expansion of the property tax assistance program will have a significant impact on the lives of those who are struggling to make ends meet. For many seniors and individuals with disabilities, the cost of living can be quite high, and property taxes can be a significant burden. This assistance program will provide them with much-needed financial assistance, allowing them to stay in their homes and maintain their quality of life.
Additionally, this program is particularly important for qualifying veterans, who have already given so much to our country. The expanded income thresholds will allow more veterans to receive the financial assistance they need to support themselves and their families. The bill is now headed to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.
To apply online for a property tax exemption:
To read more about this bill, click on the article below published by the Seattle Times.
Bill would let more WA homeowners qualify for property tax breaks
As we move forward, I encourage you to continue to stay engaged and involved in the legislative process. Your input and feedback are vital to ensuring that we are creating policies that truly serve the needs of our community. Send me an email at jesse.salomon@leg.wa.gov or give me a call at 360-786-7662.
Sincerely Yours,
Jesse Salomon
