The Shelby County Trustee’s office has issued a reminder that it has a safety net for seniors.

“Under the current economic conditions, I realize that property taxes place a burden on our elderly taxpayers who live on fixed incomes,” said Shelby County Trustee Regina Morrison Newman.

“I want to do everything humanly possible to lessen the financial burden placed on our senior citizens, disabled homeowners and disabled veterans by making sure that all qualified taxpayers are aware of programs that are available to them to provide assistance in paying their property taxes.

Newman said that the Tax Relief Program assists citizens 65 years of age or older, who own their homes (including mobile homes) and have a combined income of all owners of the property, including their spouse, not exceeding $25,360 annually. Also, veterans who are totally disabled due to a service connected occurrence, or the widow or widower of a totally disabled veteran, or the spouse of a soldier killed in action may be eligible.

Those qualifying for the program can be assisted with payment of property taxes. The average relief amount is $253.75.  

Anyone interested must apply for the tax relief credit in the Trustee’s office on or before April 5, 2010. The Tax Relief Program was created and funded by the Tennessee State Legislature and is administered by the Shelby County Trustee office.  The money does not have to be repaid.

Tax Freeze

The Tax Freeze Program was created to help seniors by freezing the tax amount on a primary residence for future years. The program is available to senior citizens who are 65 years old or older. In order to qualify, the applicant must be at least 65 years old or older, own and live in a home in Shelby County that is their primary residence and has a combined income of all owners, including their spouse, that did not exceed $33,340 in 2008.

To qualify

The application process for the Tax Relief and Tax Freeze Programs begins in the office of the Shelby County Trustee. The main office is located at 160 N. Main St. on the 2nd floor. Call the Trustee’s Customer Service Department at 521-1829 for an application for either or both programs or for additional information or to have a representative come to your group or association to present options for seniors and to assist with applications for the program.