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It’s good news for Gila County seniors.
The Gila County Assessor Deborah Hughes has announced a program for senior citizens that would freeze the limited property value of a primary residence.
While the limited property value is frozen, the taxes are not levied at the same rate as all other properties in the taxing district. To qualify, the owner must be a senior, age 65 or over who has resided in the primary residence for at least two years prior to application. Primary Residence is defined as the residence which is occupied by the taxpayer for nine months of the calendar year. If the primary residence is a mobile home (personal property), the applicant’s name must be on the title of the property. Owner must fill out the application. At least one of the two owners must be 65 years of age. Proof of age is required.
All income, taxable and non-taxable, of all owners is used to determine eligibility. This income must be verified for three years prior to the year in which the freeze becomes effective. Total three year average income cannot exceed the following limits for 2015: $35,184 for one owner, $43,980 for two or more owners.
Applications are accepted through Sept. 1 of each year, so time is of the essence for those who are interested in applying. To remain eligible, the owner is required to renew every three years. The Assessor’s Office mails out renewal applications in the renewal year.
First time applicants should apply in person. To contact the Globe Office call 928-402-8714 or fax 928-425-0408.
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