Property tax assistance empowers low-income older adults to remain in their homes as they age

Missouri’s most vulnerable adults may be surprised to learn they could qualify for property tax credits or refunds that put money back in their pockets.
West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (West Central) is pleased to announce it has joined AARP Foundation Property Tax-Aide to help low- and moderate-income older residents navigate the often-complex process of applying for property tax refunds or credits. This year’s filing deadline is April 18, 2022. Individuals may claim back tax credits for up to three years (2019 – 2021).
Through Property Tax-Aide, trained volunteers in local communities use an innovative web-based digital tool that helps older adults determine eligibility and apply for property tax relief. Since its inception in 2019, Property Tax-Aide has helped thousands of older residents receive over 10 million dollars in property tax refunds and credits.
Older adults living on low or fixed incomes are at risk of having to leave their homes because they can no longer afford rising property taxes or increased rent. Only about 8% of low- and moderate-income older adults take advantage of the property tax relief programs available in their communities. Missouri is one of 13 states currently supported by the AARP Foundation Property Tax-Aide program. Depending on where they live, homeowners, renters, nursing home residents, even people who don’t have to file a tax return, may qualify.
“More than 20 million people age 50 and older spend up to 30% of their income on housing, and about half of those individuals spend at least 50%,” said Emily Allen, Senior Vice President, AARP Foundation Programs. “Together with our growing number of network partners, we can help our most vulnerable adults save money and remain in their homes longer as they age. AARP Foundation is thrilled to be bringing West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (West Central) on as a vital network member in the implementation and expansion of the Property Tax-Aide program.”
Community Action Agencies were created in 1965, with the belief that the community could best serve its own citizens. West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (West Central) is a not-for-profit organization that strives to assist and advance the communities in Bates, Benton, Cass, Cedar, Henry, Henry, Hickory, Morgan, St. Clair and Vernon County. West Central partners with local organizations and communities to offer services in the areas of home ownership, housing assistance, housing/debt counseling, and more. To learn more about West Central Missouri Community Action Agency, visit https://wcmcaa.org. For more information, visit our Facebook page, call (660) 476-2185, or email info@wcmcaa.org.
AARP Foundation works to end senior poverty by helping vulnerable people over 50 build economic opportunity. Our approach emphasizes equitable outcomes for populations that have faced systemic discrimination. As AARP’s charitable affiliate, we serve AARP members and nonmembers alike. Through connections, we foster resilience, advance equity and restore hope. To learn more, visit aarpfoundation.org or follow @AARPFoundation on social media. For more information: AARP Media Relations, 202-434-2560, media@aarp.org, @AARPMedia