How to apply for ANCHOR — Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters

Who it's for

ANCHOR is New Jersey's primary property tax relief program. Homeowners with income up to $250,000 and renters with income up to $150,000 qualify. Age 65+ receives a $250 senior bonus on top of the base benefit. Base benefits: homeowners receive $1,500 (income ≤$150,000) or $1,000 (income $150,001-$250,000); renters receive $450. Apply each year by November 2, 2026 using the ANCHOR portal at nj.gov/treasury/anchor or call 1-888-238-1233. Combine with Senior Freeze for layered relief. ANCHOR has no minimum age — homeowners and renters of any age can qualify. Age 65+ affects which application you file (Form PAS-1 instead of ANC-1) and adds a senior benefit boost, not whether you qualify.

What you'll need

• Proof of NJ residency / homeownership or rental
• Property tax bill (homeowners) or landlord info (renters)
• Proof of all household income

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about ANCHOR — Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters. 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 proof of NJ residency / homeownership or rental, property tax bill (homeowners) or landlord info (renters), proof of all household 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.

Step by step

1. Gather your documents before you start: proof of New Jersey residency, your property tax bill (homeowners) or your landlord's name and address (renters), and proof of all household income.
2. Confirm your income. Homeowners must have income up to $250,000. Renters must have income up to $150,000. There is no minimum age to qualify.
3. Determine which form applies to you. If you are 65 or older, you will file Form PAS-1. All other applicants file Form ANC-1. Filing the correct form ensures you receive the $250 senior bonus if you are eligible.
4. Apply online through the ANCHOR portal or call 1-888-238-1233 to apply by phone. The deadline to apply is November 2, 2026.
5. Submit your completed application along with any requested documentation through the channel you chose — online portal or phone.

What to expect: After submitting, the New Jersey Division of Taxation will review your application. Processing times vary, so contact the agency at 1-888-238-1233 for an estimate on your specific case. If approved, homeowners with income up to $150,000 receive a $1,500 base benefit, homeowners with income between $150,001 and $250,000 receive $1,000, and renters receive $450 — with an extra $250 added for applicants age 65 or older. Because ANCHOR is an annual program, you will need to reapply each year to keep receiving the benefit. If you also qualify for New Jersey's Senior Freeze program, applying for both can provide layered property-tax relief.

Renewals

annual