Voter approval would double veterans’ property tax break in 2028

Eligible veterans and surviving spouses would get up to $500 off their yearly property tax bills. Veterans must be citizens living in New Jersey who left active military service honorably. Surviving spouses qualify if their deceased spouse was a citizen and New Jersey resident who died on active duty or left active service honorably. Voters must approve the amendment. Surviving spouses must remain unmarried and live in New Jersey. Tax bills below $500 would be canceled. The higher amount would apply in tax year 2028 and every year afterward.

Lawmakers could allow yearly property tax breaks of up to $500 for eligible older homeowners and homeowners with disabilities. Homeowners must be New Jersey citizens and residents who are at least 65 or permanently and totally disabled under Social Security rules. Voters must approve the amendment. Counted yearly income cannot exceed $10,000; some income is excluded. Surviving spouses must be at least 55, remain unmarried, and stay in the same home on the same land where their spouse received the break. The higher limit would apply in tax year 2028 and every year afterward.