Property taxes remain one of the largest ongoing expenses for many New Jersey homeowners, mobile homeowners, and renters. To help ease that burden, several New Jersey property tax relief programs provide financial assistance to eligible residents. It is important to understand how these programs work, when payments are issued, and what steps may be required to receive benefits.
Stay NJ
The Stay NJ program provides property tax relief through equal quarterly payments rather than a single lump-sum benefit. First-quarter payments will begin on February 9, 2026, and eligible recipients will receive paper checks by mail.
Because payments are issued throughout the year, recipients should expect ongoing quarterly distributions once eligibility has been confirmed. The amount of the benefit depends on individual eligibility and program requirements, which are determined through the application process.
Application process for seniors and disability benefit recipients
In February 2026, the state will begin mailing the Property Tax Relief Application, Form PAS-1, to certain residents. This includes individuals who filed a paper application in the prior year, as well as those who may now qualify for the Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement), ANCHOR, or Stay NJ programs.
Residents who submitted their PAS-1 electronically in the prior year will not receive a paper application. Instead, they will receive a postcard notifying them when the online application for Tax Year 2025 becomes available.
The information submitted through Form PAS-1 is used to determine eligibility across multiple programs. For individuals who qualify for Stay NJ, the state will issue a letter in the autumn outlining the specific benefit amount to which they are eligible.
ANCHOR program updates for residents under age 65
Residents under age 65 who are not collecting Social Security or Railroad Retirement disability benefits will generally follow a different process. Most eligible filers will have their ANCHOR applications (Form ANC-1) automatically filed. These individuals will receive an ANCHOR Benefit Confirmation Letter in August 2026 confirming their eligibility and benefit details.
Those whose applications are not auto-filed will still have the option to apply electronically or download and submit Form ANC-1 by mail once applications become available. Checking for updated filing instructions during the application period is important to avoid missing deadlines.
Planning to maximize property tax relief
Property tax relief programs can provide meaningful financial support, but eligibility requirements, application timing, and payment schedules vary by program. Staying aware of application notices, confirmation letters, and mailing timelines helps ensure benefits are received without delay.
Homeowners, mobile homeowners, and renters should review their eligibility annually, especially if income levels, residency status, or household circumstances have changed. Understanding how Stay NJ, ANCHOR, and related programs work together can help residents take full advantage of available relief and better manage housing-related expenses throughout the year.
As program details and filing timelines evolve, carefully reviewing state communications and filing applications promptly remains the best way to ensure continued eligibility and timely payments. Bottom of Form
Contact your Stephano Slack tax manager or partner at 610-687-1600 or TaxInfo@StephanoSlack.com with questions. We are always happy to help.
Author Joshua Greenbaum, CPA, is a manager in Stephano Slack’s Marlton, NJ office, bringing extensive tax and audit expertise to his clients. Known for his collaborative approach, Josh works closely with individuals at every level, from business owners to bookkeepers. He simplifies complex financial issues, helping clients make informed decisions with confidence. Josh’s dedication to maximizing client benefits shines in times of uncertainty. With his expertise in navigating complex programs and strategies, Josh helps clients secure optimal outcomes even in challenging circumstances. He can be contacted at 856-489-0222 ext. 3415 or Jgreenbaum@Stephanoslack.com.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and doesn’t constitute professional advice.
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