How to apply for Real Estate Cap Program (RECAP) — Henrico in Virginia

Who it's for

RECAP keeps a Henrico County homeowner's real estate tax bill from going up. The bill is capped at the amount paid when you join, so higher home assessments in later years do not raise it. You must be 65 or older, or permanently and totally disabled, and live in the home as your only residence. Household taxable income must be $125,000 or less, and net worth must be $750,000 or less, not counting the home and up to 10 acres. RECAP has higher limits than the county's REAP tax exemption. File with the Revenue Division by April 1; first-time and hardship applications are taken through December 31. Call 804-501-4263 for an application.

What you'll need

• Driver's license or birth certificate as proof of age (first-time applicants)
• Proof of permanent and total disability if under 65 (Social Security award letter, Railroad Retirement Board or VA letter, or two Virginia doctors' affidavits)
• Prior-year year-end statements of income
• Prior-year year-end checking, savings and stock statements

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Real Estate Cap Program (RECAP) — Henrico. 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 driver's license or birth certificate as proof of age (first-time applicants), proof of permanent and total disability if under 65 (Social Security award letter, Railroad Retirement Board or VA letter, or two Virginia doctors' affidavits), prior-year year-end statements of income — 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.

Renewals

annual