Several older homeowners in Missouri say they were surprised to receive higher property tax bills despite being approved for a senior tax credit designed to limit increases.
What Is the Senior Property Tax Credit?
The relief program was created under SB190, legislation sponsored by Tony Luetkemeyer, to adjust how property taxes are calculated for seniors.
According to Clay County’s Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief Program, the credit is determined by subtracting a homeowner’s base-year property tax from the current year’s tax amount.
The law took effect on January 1, 2025 and applies to residents who:
- Are 62 years or older
- Own or have a legal interest in a home
- Use the property as their primary residence
- Are responsible for paying the property’s real estate taxes
Seniors Report Higher Bills Despite Approval
Some seniors say the “freeze” did not work as expected.
Joanne Ellington, a 91-year-old resident of Clay County, said her 2025 tax bill rose by $140 even after approval.
“A lot of people say that’s not that much,” Ellington explained. “I only make $1,410 a month, so between taxes and insurance, that’s about three months of my income.”
She added that many seniors simply cannot afford these increases.
In Jackson County, resident Daniel Van Hoecke reported an even steeper jump—about $600 more than the prior year.
“I expected it to match my 2024 taxes,” he said. “Seeing it go up that much was a little disappointing.”
Both homeowners had been approved for their county senior property tax credit programs.
Why Bills Can Still Increase
County officials say the tax credit does not always guarantee identical bills year to year.
A Clay County spokesperson explained that school mill levies and debt-related taxes are excluded from the credit, which can raise total amounts due. The county’s website also clarifies that even after taxes are “frozen,” amounts may change if:
- Voters approve new taxes
- Existing tax levies are increased
- Debt levy obligations change
County Leaders Address Concerns
Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota said his county does not exempt school taxes or debt levies from senior tax bills. He also stated that the reported $600 increase may not be accurate.
LeVota acknowledged that some approved senior accounts were not properly updated due to system delays and technical issues. The county is working to correct these problems, and any seniors who overpaid will receive refunds.
He also noted that while property valuations may rise, seniors approved for the credit should see bills that remain roughly comparable once corrections are applied.
Lawmaker Pushes Back on County Interpretations
The bill’s sponsor, Senator Luetkemeyer, said the statute does not exclude debt levies from senior tax relief.
“Increased taxes related to debt should also be discounted from a senior’s tax bill,” he said.
He argued that some counties have adopted local ordinances that create loopholes, preventing seniors from receiving the full benefit of the law. Luetkemeyer pointed out that certain counties are fully excluding tax increases for seniors and expressed hope that others will comply with both the letter and spirit of the legislation.
Missouri’s senior property tax credit was designed to ease financial pressure on older homeowners, but uneven implementation has led to confusion and unexpected increases.
While counties cite exclusions and system delays, lawmakers argue the law intended broader relief. As corrections and refunds are processed, seniors are encouraged to review their bills closely and follow county updates to ensure they receive the full benefit promised under SB190.
FAQs
Why did my property taxes increase even after being “frozen”?
Some portions of property taxes—such as school levies or debt obligations—may be excluded, depending on county rules.
Will seniors who overpaid receive refunds?
Yes. Counties have confirmed that any verified overpayments will be refunded.
Does SB190 allow counties to exclude debt levies?
The bill’s sponsor says no, but some counties interpret the law differently, leading to ongoing disputes.
Source: DanKaminisky
Source Link: https://dankaminsky.com/americans-alarmed-as-600-property-tax-charges-appear-despite-freeze-promise/