Local Option Senior Tax Freeze

Connecticut

2020

No Variation in Receipt of Benefits

Other

At local option, municipalities may permanently freeze property taxes of eligible homeowners at the level due in the year immediately preceding the application or, if lower, a later assessment year. This level can be lowered if the town decides on a lower general tax levy. The town may also establish a lien for the unpaid taxes. If the total value of tax relief received by the homeowner under this program and the tax relief and circuit breaker programs is more than 75% of the taxes owed, the municipality is required to place a lien on the property for the amount of relief that is in excess of 75%.

Credit to the property tax bill

Residential

Residential property that is the owner's residence is eligible.

Age

Homeowner

Income Ceiling

Principal Residence

Surviving Spouse

Other Criteria

Eligible individuals include elderly homeowners aged 70 or older, who have lived in the state for at least one year. Income is defined as adjusted gross income and tax-exempt interest. This definition does not include Social Security income. Income levels are based on the limits for participation in the state's circuit breaker program. In order to continue to receive a frozen tax benefit in 2020, a claimant's 2019 total income must not exceed $36,000 if unmarried, or $43,900 if married. For married couples, income for both husband and wife must be counted in establishing qualifying income. The surviving spouse must be at least 62 when the homeowner dies. The town may also impose an asset limit. After the first year, applications must be submitted biennially. Participates in this program may also participate in other relief programs, including the circuit breaker and the tax relief program.

Local government must take action to opt in

Local option regarding program features

Local government covers all of its tax loss

There is no state reimbursement for this program.

CT111_RR20