Are you over 65? Are you permanently disabled? Struggling to pay your property taxes? You may qualify for North Carolina Tax Relief. Did you know North Carolina state law allows property tax relief for low-income seniors and disabled homeowners, as well as disabled veterans or their unmarried surviving spouse? There are three programs authorized by the General Assembly, with requirements that Buncombe County must follow. These programs are offered for the permanent residence for qualified homeowners and can significantly reduce property tax bills.
The application process is open Jan. 1-June 1. Late applications may be considered for good cause through Dec. 31. Find out more below.
Property Tax Exclusion for Elderly or Disabled
Homeowners who are 65 and older or 100% disabled can get $25,000 or up to 50% off their property assessment, whichever is greater, if they meet certain income and ownership requirements. Married couples can qualify even if only one partner is 65+ or disabled. This tax relief is an exemption not a deferment.
OR
Homestead Circuit Breaker Property Tax Deferment
Seniors and those disabled who’ve owned and occupied their homes for more than five years can choose a program that ensures their property tax bill will not be more than 4-5% of their income. This is a deferred tax and homeowners will have to pay up to three years of the deferred tax upon a disqualifying event. For example, a disqualifying event would be if you move or sell your home.
OR
Veterans With Service-Connected Disabilities
Veterans with a total and permanent service-connected disability, or their unmarried surviving spouse, can get $45,000 off their assessed value, no matter what their income. This program is an exemption not a deferment; the amount excluded would not be due in the future.
Requirements and more details
The income eligibility limits for 2025 are as follows:
Elderly or Disabled Property Tax Homestead Exclusion: $37,900
Property Tax Homestead Circuit Breaker: $56,850
Visit buncombecounty.org/taxrelief or call one of our friendly tax specialists at (828) 250-4915 to see if you might qualify.
Related Resources:
Buncombe County Homeowner Grant: Qualified homeowners will have an opportunity to receive financial assistance for housing-related costs. This program typically starts accepting inquiries July through September.
Tax Collections Payment Plans: Need more time to pay your property tax bill? If you have any questions about your tax bill or payment plans our helpful Collection specialists are standing by at (828) 250-4910, or email taxcollection@buncombecounty.org.