Kansas Senate modifies property tax eligibility for seniors and disabled veterans

During a recent meeting of the Kansas Senate Committee on Assessment and Taxation, lawmakers discussed significant amendments to the Homestead Refund Act, aimed at simplifying income calculations for property tax relief for seniors and disabled veterans. The proposed changes would redefine income eligibility criteria, potentially benefiting many residents.

Currently, the program allows for a household income threshold of $50,000, which includes half of Social Security benefits in the income calculation. The new proposal seeks to raise this threshold to $80,000 while eliminating the inclusion of Social Security benefits in the income assessment. This change is expected to streamline the application process and make it easier for seniors and disabled veterans to qualify for property tax relief.

Senator Peck, who introduced the amendment, emphasized the need for clarity in defining income as "Kansas adjusted gross income." This adjustment aims to simplify the program and align it more closely with the information provided on Kansas tax returns, making it more accessible for applicants. The committee unanimously supported this motion, indicating a strong consensus on the need for reform.

In addition to the income adjustments, Senator Peck proposed changing the base year for property appraisals from 2025 to 2024 and lowering the appraised value from $595,000 to $450,000. This amendment is intended to expedite the implementation of the program, allowing residents to benefit from the changes sooner.

The committee also reviewed House Bill 2231, which proposes an increase in Kansas exemptions for head of household filers and certain disabled veterans. This bill aims to provide additional financial relief to these groups, further supporting the committee's focus on enhancing tax benefits for vulnerable populations.

As these discussions progress, the proposed changes to the Homestead Refund Act and related tax exemptions reflect a commitment to improving financial support for Kansas residents, particularly seniors and disabled veterans. The committee's actions could lead to significant relief for many households, addressing ongoing concerns about property taxes and financial stability in the community.