20 Sep Do I have to apply for ANCHOR or is it automatic?

Q. If I applied last year for the ANCHOR program and received my check, do I have to apply again this year or is it automatic?
— Homeowner

A. The ANCHOR property tax benefit will be automatic for many residents who received the 2019 benefit. The next one, which covers the 2020 tax year, will start going out by Nov. 1, the state said.

The state said it sent out notification letters to eligible residents in August. The letters informed residents that the benefit will be automatic this year unless your personal information has changed.

But not everyone received the letter.

Others, a few weeks later, started to receive application packets from the state.

If you didn’t get either, you can still apply online or by downloading, printing and mailing an application from the state’s website. 

Also note the benefit for the 2020 tax year will pay an extra $250 for eligible seniors.

Homeowners 65 years or older earning $150,000 or less will receive $1,750. Those earning between $150,001 and $250,000 will receive $1,250.

Homeowners under the age of 65 earning $150,000 and under will receive $1,500 and those earning between $150,001 and $250,000 will receive $1,000.

Renters over the age of 65 who earn less than $150,000 will receive $700. Renters who are 64 and under will receive $450.

And finally, you only have until Sept. 30 to tell the state if your banking or other information has changed.

The ANCHOR hotline is (888) 238-1233.

Email your questions to .

This story was originally published on Sept. 20, 2023.

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