17 Oct Is it too late for Mom to file for ANCHOR benefits?

Q. Is it too late for my mom, who is 91, to apply for the ANCHOR program?
— Trying to help

A. It’s not too late to apply for the 2020 tax year.

The state has given residents plenty of time to file.

The deadline is Friday, Dec. 29, 2023.

But there’s no reason to wait. The state has started to send out payments to residents, and this will continue on a rolling basis.

It takes about 90 days from the time you file to get the benefit.

Your mom needs to make sure she qualifies based on 2020 residency, income and age eligibility. Assuming she meets residency and income qualifications, she would get an extra $250 for being over age 65.

The state says most homeowners may file online or by phone with an identification number (ID) and PIN.

However, if you bought your home in 2020, altered your deed, or had certain life changes such as a divorce or death of a spouse, you must file an application by mail.

Renters may file using the online option. They do not need an ID and PIN, the state said.

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This story was originally published on Oct. 17, 2023.

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