Washington State: Property Tax Help for Homeowners Affected by Economic Downturn

Property Tax Deferral Program Available for Fall Taxes

Olympia, Wash., June 9, 2009 - Homeowners on limited incomes can apply to defer paying their second half property taxes due Oct. 31.

Applicants must have an annual household income of $57,000 or less in 2008, have owned the home for at least five years, use it as their primary residence, and have sufficient equity.  Deferred taxes cannot exceed 40 percent of equity.

The deferred taxes must be repaid, with interest, when the property is sold or no longer used as the homeowner's primary residence.  The interest rate is 5 percent for 2009.

For more information, see the Department's publication Property Tax Deferral for Homeowners with Limited Income, call 360-570-5900, or contact your county assessor.