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1. What is the eligibility based on?

Eligibility for the program is based on a combination of age and/or disability, income, and total assets of the homeowner(s). If eligible, the exemption/reduction would apply to the following tax year.  The Department of Social Services determines eligibility only and will notify customers via mail of the eligibility decision.  All questions related to payment timeframes, retroactive reimbursements, mortgage company billing, etc. should be referred to the Treasurer's Office at (757) 514-4275.

2. What are the Basic Requirements?

To qualify for the 2021/2022 tax year: - The applicant must be at least sixty-five (65) years of age as of June 30th of the prior tax year or permanently and totally disabled. - The total combined gross household income of the homeowner, spouse, and all of the owner’s relatives residing in the dwelling, excluding the first $10,000 of income of the owner’s relatives other than the spouse, shall not exceed a total of $63,855. A total of $7,500 is excluded from the income of a homeowner who is permanently and totally disabled. Income from any other person(s) living in the home, who is not related to the owner(s), is not considered. - The net combined financial worth, including equitable interests as of December 31st of the preceding calendar year, of the owners and the spouse of any owner, excluding the value of the dwelling and the land, not exceeding ten acres upon which it is situated, shall not exceed $286,190.

3. How do I apply for Real Estate Tax Relief?

Appointments are not necessary to apply for this program. An application must be filed with the Suffolk Department of Social Services between January 1st and June 30th preceding the tax year for which relief is sought.  Applications may be e-mailed, faxed, or mailed.  You may also pick up an application at the Department of Social Services office located at 135 Hall Avenue.
Further information and required documents can be obtained by calling 757-514-4870 or 757-514-4222. Please note: The Tax Relief application only applies to Real Estate taxes and does not impact personal property or income taxes.

4. Are there limits on the Tax Relief exemption?

The Tax Exemption is limited to the median value of single family residential property. Therefore, the exemption is capped at this figure or the assessed value, whichever is less. The Tax Relief Levels for Tax Year 2021/2022 are as followed:

$0 - $48,831                      100%

$48,832 - $56,343               50%

$56,344 - $63,855               25%

$63,855 - MAXIMUM INCOME LIMIT

$286,190 - FINANCIAL WORTH LIMIT

$249,100 - CAP - Single Family Median Value