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New Jersey’s ANCHOR Program continues to offer significant property tax relief to residents, helping both homeowners and renters manage one of the highest tax burdens in the country.
This rebate draws from 2024 tax filings and is processed through an online application system that reviews and approves claims in phases throughout the fall.
Most residents experience a smooth application due to the state’s use of previously verified information.
Eligibility Rules for Homeowners and Renters
To qualify for the ANCHOR rebate, individuals must have lived in New Jersey for the entirety of 2024 and must have listed their home as their primary residence by October 1, 2024.
Eligibility depends on gross income from Line 29 of the NJ-1040:
- Homeowners:
- Up to $250,000
- Renters:
- Up to $150,000
Residents aged 65 or older by December 31, 2024, as well as individuals receiving Social Security disability benefits, follow these same limits but qualify for higher payment tiers.
Properties not eligible include secondary homes, commercial rentals, and tax-exempt sites such as government buildings or institutional facilities.
New Jersey’s $3 Billion Property Tax Relief Initiative
In August, the state mailed eligibility notifications to residents under 65, allowing corrections through mid-September. Seniors and people with disabilities used the PAS-1 form, which remained open until October 31 for online or mailed submissions.
For verification, applicants must complete ID.me identity checks, which require Social Security details or a state-issued driver’s license.
Payment Amounts Under ANCHOR
Rebate amounts vary based on age, income, and ownership status:
| Category | Income Range | Rebate Amount (Under 65) | Rebate Amount (65+ or Disabled) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homeowners | Up to $150,000 | $1,500 | $1,750 |
| Homeowners | $150,001–$250,000 | $1,000 | $1,250 |
| Renters | Up to $150,000 | $450 | $700 + $250 bonus |
Some seniors may also receive an additional $50 if overlooked in previous filings.
How Senior Freeze and Stay NJ Add to the Relief
The ANCHOR payment reflects actual 2024 property tax payments and is part of a broader $3 billion tax relief package, with ANCHOR itself funded at more than $2.5 billion.
When combined with the Senior Freeze rebate (up to $4,750) or Stay NJ benefits (up to $4,000 in savings), households may receive over $6,500 in total relief.
Payments are sent via direct deposit or paper checks, with online applications generally resolved within 4–6 weeks and mailed applications taking up to 12 weeks.
Statewide Property Tax Landscape
New Jersey property owners pay some of the highest taxes in the country, averaging nearly $9,000 per year. These funds contribute to education, public safety, and municipal operations.
Importantly, ANCHOR rebates do not change local tax rates—they are funded through state surpluses. Records show that by November 15, 2025, more than half of expected payments had already been issued, with direct deposit prioritized.
Who Can Apply for the 2025 ANCHOR Benefit
Applicants should be able to prove primary occupancy, as seasonal or mixed-use properties are not eligible. Dependents cannot file separately if they are claimed on someone else’s return.
If a property owner passes away after October 1, executors or surviving spouses may still claim the benefit using the proper documentation.
Residents can check their status online through propertytaxreliefapp.nj.gov or call 609-826-1042 for assistance.
Rebates remain nontaxable at the state and federal level and do not interfere with homestead or veterans’ deductions.
ANCHOR Payment Schedule for 2025
All rebates are applied at the household level, regardless of the number of occupants. The 2024 income line determines the payment bracket.
According to treasury updates issued on October 3, 2025, payment levels are fully funded for the year.
- First rebates: Sent on September 15, 2025
- Secondary rounds: Continue through December 2025 and January 2026
Residents also receive an October 20 determination letter that outlines their final approved amount and delivery method. Approximately 2 million households statewide are expected to benefit.
Program Administration and Verification
The online system uses multi-layer identity verification to reduce fraudulent activity. PAS-1 forms include required documents for mail-in submissions.
Renters benefit through the state’s tracking of landlord-reported property taxes, while owners verify residency through municipal identifiers. Properties with four or more residential units combined with commercial sections fall outside ANCHOR but may receive other state assistance.
November remains the busiest month for inquiries. Status dashboards update weekly, and there is no fee to apply—residents are warned to avoid third-party services.
The New Jersey ANCHOR Program delivers meaningful financial support to both homeowners and renters facing steep property taxes. With increased payouts for seniors and disability recipients, the rebate remains a cornerstone of the state’s nearly $3 billion tax relief effort.
As payments roll out from fall 2025 through early 2026, millions of residents stand to benefit from one of the country’s largest property tax refund programs.