Homestead Exemption for Elderly Persons with Local Option

Delaware

2021

No Variation in Receipt of Benefits

Exemption

Eligible persons 65 years or older are allowed an exemption up to $5,000 of the assessed value of the property. The exemption applies to county taxes with each county able to establish own eligibility requirements and expand the benefits. Municipalities may also adopt an exemption for municipal property taxes. The value of the exemption is set locally, with no cap established by the state. Applicants must apply with the municipality where the property is located. Application deadlines vary by municipality. Each of the three counties in the state have expanded the benefit amounts. In addition, a waiver is provided for property taxes on a mobile home up to an assessed valuation determined by the county council. This benefit may not be applied to ditch taxes and sewer taxes. Applications must be filed annually in the county where the property is located. Consult county offices for application deadlines and any other requirements.

Exemption from assessed value

Residential

Only residential property is eligible for this program.

Age

Homeowner

Income Ceiling

Principal Residence

Other Criteria

For the state program, eligible individuals are 65 years of age or more, own their home, and have an income which does not exceed $3,000 per year or $6,000 if married. Each of the three counties in the state have different income eligibility requirements and some have additional eligibility criteria. For residents who established a legal domicile in the state before 31 December 2018, the resident must have been legally domiciled in the state for at least 3 years to be eligible for the credit. For residents establishing a legal domicile in the state after 31 December 2018, the resident must have been legally domiciled in the state for at least 10 consecutive years to be eligible for the credit. Counties also have defined income differently. Consult the county tax office where the property is located for more information. This exemption cannot be in addition to any other exemption for which they may qualify. To qualify, you must meet the requirements by September 1st of the year prior to the one in which you apply for the benefit.

Local government is unable to exercise an option

Local option regarding program features

Local government covers all of its tax loss

State statutes do not provide for state funding for local tax loss.

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