How to apply for Property Tax Deferral Program (seniors and active military) in Colorado

Colorado Department of the Treasury (applications through the County Treasurer)

Who it's for

The Property Tax Deferral Program lets homeowners 65 or older (by December 31, 2026) put off paying their property taxes. The state pays the tax, and the deferred amount becomes a simple-interest loan (4.238% for the 2026-27 tax year) repaid when the home is sold, rented, or transferred. All past taxes must be paid, and all mortgages and liens must total 75% or less of the home's value. Get the application from your County Treasurer and file it between January 1 and April 1. Active military members may also qualify.

A loan, not forgiveness: deferred taxes and interest are repaid from the home. Reverse mortgages are not allowed, prior taxes must be paid in full, and liens must be 75% or less of the home's value. You must reapply each year between January 1 and April 1.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • Deferral application from the County Treasurer
  • Current mortgage balance
  • Proof of age

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-303-866-5327

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Property Tax Deferral Program (seniors and active military). 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 deferral application from the County Treasurer, current mortgage balance, proof of age — 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. Get the deferral application from your County Treasurer.
  2. Gather your proof of age and your current mortgage balance.
  3. Make sure all past property taxes are paid in full. Also make sure your mortgages and liens are 75% or less of your home’s value, and that you do not have a reverse mortgage.
  4. Apply through Colorado online or by phone at 1-303-866-5327.
  5. File your application between January 1 and April 1.
  6. Reapply every year between January 1 and April 1 if you want to keep using the program.

What to expect: After you apply, the County Treasurer processes the application. Ask the agency if you want an estimate of processing time. If approved, the state pays the property tax and the deferred amount becomes a simple-interest loan that is repaid from the home when it is sold, rented, or transferred. This is not tax forgiveness. You must apply again each year between January 1 and April 1.

Renewals

annual

Official source →Last verified · September 30, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.