How to apply for Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral in Minnesota

Who it's for

Lets homeowners 65 or older (if married, one spouse 65+ and the other at least 62) with household income of $96,000 or less defer part of their homestead property tax. The state pays the rest as a loan, with interest of no more than 5%, paid back when the home is sold or the deferral is canceled. Apply by November 1 to defer the next year's taxes. Payments are capped at 3% of income while enrolled, and once accepted you do not need to reapply yearly.

What you'll need

• Online application or Form CR-SCD
• A copy of this year's property tax statement
• A report of any mortgages, liens, or judgments on the property, dated within 30 days (certificate of title for Torrens property, or an owners and encumbrances report for abstract property)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need online application or Form CR-SCD, a copy of this year's property tax statement, a report of any mortgages, liens, or judgments on the property, dated within 30 days (certificate of title for Torrens property, or an owners and encumbrances report for abstract property) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Check that the home and household meet the program rules. You must be 65 or older, or if married, one spouse must be 65 or older and the other at least 62. You must have owned and lived in the home for the last 5 years, and the home must have been homesteaded for 5 years.
2. Gather the required papers. Get this year's property tax statement and a report dated within 30 days that shows any mortgages, liens, or judgments on the property. Use a certificate of title for Torrens property or an owners and encumbrances report for abstract property.
3. Complete the application online or fill out Form CR-SCD.
4. Apply through Minnesota. Submit the online application, or call 1-651-556-6091 for help with the application process.
5. Apply by November 1 if you want to defer next year's property taxes.
6. Keep copies of the application and your documents for your records.

What to expect: After you apply, the agency reviews your application and documents. Processing times vary, so ask the agency if you want an estimate. If approved, this program defers part of your property tax as a loan, not a forgiveness. Deferred amounts accrue interest and are paid back from home equity when the home is sold or the deferral is canceled. Once accepted, you do not need to reapply each year.

Renewals

none