If you’re a New Jersey resident, you could be in for a financial boost before the year ends. The state is rolling out a round of property tax relief payments through the ANCHOR program, and some eligible households are set to receive up to $1,750. The first group of recipients who applied early will begin receiving their cash as soon as December 15.
This state-level relief comes as welcome news for many, especially in a year where housing costs and inflation have put serious pressure on household budgets. Here’s what you need to know about who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when to expect your payment.
Table of Contents
Taxes
When most people think of taxes, they think of the federal tax system managed by the IRS. And yes, all income-earning Americans generally have to file federal tax returns—even if they owe nothing.
At the federal level, you typically must file if:
- Your gross income exceeds $14,600 (as a single filer under 65)
- You earned more than $400 through self-employment
However, that’s just part of the picture. Many states, including New Jersey, also have their own tax systems with additional obligations and—sometimes—benefits like rebates or credits. Unlike federal tax credits, these state rebates vary depending on local policies, revenue surpluses, or targeted relief programs like ANCHOR.
Payments
New Jersey’s Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters (ANCHOR) program is one of the most significant property tax relief programs in the country. The purpose is to ease the burden of property taxes for both homeowners and renters—especially lower- and middle-income families.
The deadline to apply for the 2024 ANCHOR rebate was October 31, and those who applied on time are in the first payment group. The first round of payments is set to be issued starting December 15, either by direct deposit or paper check depending on the method selected during the application.
Eligibility
So, who actually qualifies for this payment?
To be eligible for the 2024 ANCHOR rebate, you must meet the following criteria:
- You were a New Jersey resident as of October 1, 2024
- Your gross income in 2024 was:
- $250,000 or less if you’re a homeowner
- $150,000 or less if you’re a renter
- You owned or rented your main home in New Jersey on October 1, 2024
- You must have paid property taxes on your home, or your rental unit must have been subject to property tax
- Renters must be listed on the lease and show proof of having paid rent
Meeting these conditions puts you in line to receive one of the tiered rebate payments—possibly the full $1,750 if you’re a qualifying senior.
Amounts
How much you receive depends on your income level, housing status, and age. Below is a breakdown of rebate amounts:
Homeowners
| Income Bracket | Rebate Amount |
|---|---|
| $150,000 or less | $1,500 |
| $150,001 to $250,000 | $1,000 |
Seniors (65+)
- Add $250 to your eligible amount if you are 65 or older
- This brings the maximum rebate to $1,750
So, if you’re a senior homeowner earning $150,000 or less, you’ll receive the full $1,750. For those who are renters and qualify based on income, the rebate will be lower—but still valuable.
Application
The ANCHOR program application deadline for this cycle was October 31, so if you’ve already applied, you’re in good shape. If you missed the deadline, unfortunately, you’ll need to wait for the next round—though it’s worth keeping an eye on announcements from the New Jersey Division of Taxation for possible extensions or future opportunities.
To check your application status or learn more about the program:
- Visit the NJ Division of Taxation website
- Use your ANCHOR ID and PIN to track your application
- Call the official hotline if you need assistance
Support
This rebate couldn’t come at a better time. With rising housing costs, property tax increases, and the general strain on families due to inflation, the ANCHOR program provides direct, meaningful financial relief. Many households use these rebates for basic expenses—especially around the holiday season or during back-to-school months.
The program is also a step toward making homeownership more manageable in a state where property taxes are among the highest in the U.S.
Reminder
If you’re a New Jersey homeowner or renter who met the income and residency criteria and applied by the deadline, your rebate could arrive as early as December 15. Check your mail or bank account depending on how you requested to receive the funds.
And if you’re not sure whether you applied—or think you might qualify for a future round—reach out to the NJ Division of Taxation. Missing out on up to $1,750 in tax relief is the last thing anyone needs right now.
FAQs
When will payments be issued?
First group will get payments starting December 15, 2025.
Who can get $1,750?
Seniors 65+ with income under $150k who are eligible homeowners.
What is the ANCHOR program?
It’s a NJ property tax rebate for homeowners and renters.
Who qualifies for the rebate?
Residents with 2024 income under $250k and eligible housing status.
Was there a deadline to apply?
Yes, applications were due by October 31, 2025.
