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Property Tax Exemptions

Did you know that many Snohomish and Island County homeowners may qualify for a property tax exemption that can reduce — or even eliminate — the school and local levies you pay on your home?

Every year, both counties report that thousands of residents likely qualify but have not yet applied. If you or someone you know is a senior or living with a disability, this is a great time to check your eligibility.

The exemption is not automatic — you must apply through your county assessor’s office — but once approved, it can make a real difference in your property tax bill.

How the exemption works

This program, established by the Washington State Department of Revenue, helps seniors and people with disabilities stay in their homes by reducing or freezing property taxes on their primary residence.

Once approved:

  • The taxable value of your home is “frozen” (based on your first qualifying year). Future taxes are based on that frozen value, even if your home’s market value goes up.

  • You may be exempt from certain voter-approved levies, including school levies, and a portion of the state school levy.

  • The exemption does not need to be repaid and remains in effect as long as you continue to qualify.

Who qualifies

To be eligible, homeowners generally must:

  1. Meet age or disability requirements:

    • Be 61 years or older by December 31 of the assessment year,

    • Or be unable to work due to a disability,

    • Or be a disabled veteran with at least an 80% service-connected rating or full VA disability compensation,

    • Or be the surviving spouse or partner (age 57 or older) of someone who had the exemption at the time of death.
       

  2. Own and occupy the home:

    • You must own your home and it must be your primary residence as of December 31 of the assessment year.

    • Temporary absences (such as for medical care) typically do not disqualify you.
       

  3. Meet the household income limit:

    • The income threshold varies by county and is based on your total household income after certain deductions (like medical expenses).

    • For 2025, the qualifying household income limit in Snohomish County is approximately $75,000, and in Island County it is approximately $54,000. (Exact limits are set each year by the Department of Revenue.)

Why apply now

Both Snohomish County Assessor and Island County Assessor departments have said that they believe many qualified homeowners have not applied — especially those whose income or financial situation has recently changed due to inflation, retirement, or rising medical costs.

If you think you might qualify — even if you’re not sure — it’s worth applying. There is no penalty for applying and being found ineligible, but not applying could mean missing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars in annual savings.

How to apply

Applications are handled by your county assessor’s office:

You can apply online, by mail, or in person. Once approved, the exemption typically renews automatically each year, though you may need to reverify eligibility if your income or circumstances change.

What to expect after approval

  • Your taxable value will be frozen at the level it was when you qualified.

  • You may see reductions in school and local levies starting with your next property tax bill.

  • The exemption will continue for as long as you remain qualified.

If your income or situation changes, notify your county assessor. You can also apply for refunds for up to three previous years if you would have qualified but hadn’t applied earlier.

Other options

If you don’t qualify for the exemption, there is also a Property Tax Deferral Program that allows qualifying homeowners to postpone property tax payments until the property is sold. Deferred taxes accrue interest and become a lien on the property but can help reduce immediate financial pressure.

Take action today

If you own your home and are 61 or older, or living with a disability, don’t assume you won’t qualify. Many homeowners are surprised to find they meet the criteria once deductions and current income are considered.

Learn more and apply now: