Delco homeowners can postpone paying increased portion of property tax
In the wake of a controversial 23 percent property tax rate increase, Delaware County has implemented a tax deferral program to ease the burden on low-income residents.
The program allows qualifying homeowners to postpone the portion of their tax that is above the amount paid in 2024. It does not include an increase caused by a change in the assessed value of a specific property. It does not include an increase caused by a change in the assessed value of a specific property.
The amount deferred becomes a lien on the property. Unless voluntarily repaid earlier, the annual real estate tax deferral granted under this program is due upon the sale or transfer of the property, or upon the death of the claimant.
The program is available to homeowners with a household income of $46,520 or less. Applicants must have owned and occupied the qualifying property for at least the last 12 months and must have fire or casualty insurance coverage for the qualifying property in an amount not less than the amount of the taxes being deferred.
The deferral is not available to homeowners who owe outstanding property tax or special assessments. Applicants must have written approval from all property owners, or, if the property is held in a qualifying trust, from the trustee.
The period to apply for a deferral will run from Feb. 15 to Oct. 31. Applications will be available at the Delaware County treasurer’s office at Government Center, Ground Floor, 201 W. Front St., Media. Completed applications should be turned in at the treasurer’s office.
