New Jersey issued millions in checks for its “Senior Freeze” property tax program last year — and that’s just the beginning. The Garden State has recently announced that this year's checks are already on the way. This could provide relief for older adult residents who live in one of the most expensive states for homeownership.
Let’s take a look at this program to see when you might expect your payment.
Related: This summer, Gov. Murphy signed a record-high 2026 state budget with millions in Stay NJ payouts and a new "mansion tax."
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What is the New Jersey ‘Senior Tax Freeze’ program?
Despite its name, the “Senior Freeze” program does not actually “freeze” your property taxes. Rather, the program reimburses eligible New Jersey residents for any property tax increases once they're enrolled. The program accomplishes this by locking your property tax in the year you enroll.
New Jersey 'Senior Freeze' payment schedule
Here is when you can expect your "Senior Freeze NJ" check in the mail, according to the New Jersey Division of Taxation:
When you filed your application | When you may expect your payment |
|---|---|
Before May 1 | As soon as July 15, 2025 |
May 1 - June 1 | As early as September 1, 2025 |
June 2 - Sept. 1 | As early as November 1, 2025 |
Sept. 2 - Oct. 31 | As early as December 1, 2025 |
How do I check the status of NJ 'Senior Freeze' application?
There are two ways to check the status of your New Jersey "Senior Freeze" Property Tax Reimbursement application:
- Visit the state Department of Treasury's online portal to check the status of your application.
- Call the state's "Senior Freeze" dedicated hotline at 1-800-882-6597.
You can also call the number to learn more about how the program calculates payment.
Can I file NJ 'Senior Freeze' online?
Applicants can file online, or applications may be sent by postal service.
The new process for applying to New Jersey’s "Senior Freeze" program is to fill out a “PAS-1” application. This replaces the separate applications for “Senior Freeze” and NJ ANCHOR programs. You can also apply for the new Stay NJ program on the PAS-1.
New Jersey’s Taxation Division has issued instructions for how many residents will apply for property tax relief programs moving forward:
- The state mailed out application information for PAS-1 in early 2025 to eligible recipients.
- Applicants can fill out a single “PAS-1” application for all property tax relief (ANCHOR, “Senior Freeze,” Stay NJ).
- The deadline to apply for PAS-1 is October 31, 2025. However, the sooner you apply, the sooner you may receive your payment.
Maximum income limit for NJ 'Senior Tax Freeze'
You are eligible for the Senior Freeze if you are 65 or older as of the end of the prior tax year, or on Social Security disability payments as of the end of last year.
Only property taxes for a primary residence or mobile home park site fees are included in the tax break program.
Additional eligibility requirements are as follows:
- You must be a New Jersey resident.
- You must own and live in your home or mobile home since at least December 31, 2020.
- Your total annual income must have been $163,050 or less for 2023, and $168,268 or less for 2024
Starting this year, "Senior Freeze" recipients will no longer need to supply proof that they paid property taxes with their application.
For purposes of this program, your “income” includes taxable pension and annuity payment amounts, including IRA withdrawals and all unemployment benefits you receive. Some exclusions or other income limits may apply.
What is excluded from the NJ tax relief program?
There are several exclusions to the Senior Freeze.
- For example, vacation homes and secondary homes are not eligible for reimbursement.
- Additionally, the property you rent from someone else doesn’t qualify for this program.
- Property with a commercial unit on it or property with more than four units may also be ineligible.
For more eligibility information, visit the New Jersey Division of Taxation website.
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