How to apply for Minnesota Blind/Disabled Homestead Classification (Class 1b Property Tax)
County assessor (statewide classification under Minnesota Statutes 273.13, subd. 22; guidance from the Minnesota Department of Revenue)
Who it's for
Homeowners in Minnesota who are legally blind, or who are permanently and totally disabled and get disability payments, can have their home taxed at a lower rate. The first $50,000 of the home's market value is taxed at a reduced class rate (class 1b). Apply to the county assessor by October 1 for taxes payable the next year, with a letter from an eye doctor or proof of disability payments. Once approved, the classification stays in place as long as the owner lives in the home.
Disability must be permanent and total and the owner must be receiving disability payments from a qualifying agency; the blindness or disability must have started on or before June 30 of the year you apply. The home must already be classified as a homestead. A home getting the market value exclusion for a veteran with a disability cannot also get this classification. The classification ends when the blind or disabled owner dies. The county assessor makes the final decision.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Application to the county assessor, filed by October 1
- Blind: a letter or current eye report signed by an eye doctor stating legal blindness
- Disabled: proof of disability payments and a letter from the paying agency (usually the first award letter) certifying permanent and total disability — Social Security, the VA, a public or private pension plan, SSI, welfare or workers' compensation
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
Renewals
one-time application; stays in place while the owner lives in the home (notify the assessor within 30 days of a move)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.