Tax Refund, New Jersey’s ANCHOR Tax Rebate: Who Qualifies, Payout Amounts, and the New Senior Bonus Arriving in December
New Jersey residents could see extra money hit their accounts this December as the state prepares to roll out the latest round of ANCHOR tax rebates. The payments designed to help ease the burden of property taxes are available to both homeowners and renters, with a new bonus aimed specifically at senior citizens.
Here’s everything to know about eligibility, payment amounts, and what’s new in this year’s program.
What Is the ANCHOR Tax Rebate?
The ANCHOR (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters) program is a state relief initiative offering annual refunds to eligible residents. It replaces the previous Homestead Benefit program but expands the number of people who qualify and increases the payout amounts.
The rebate is meant to provide direct financial relief as property taxes continue to rise across the state.
Eligibility for 2025 ANCHOR Payments
To qualify for the December ANCHOR rebate, residents generally must meet these conditions:
For Homeowners:
- Must have owned and lived in a home in New Jersey during the most recent qualifying tax year
- Income limits vary, but most rebates apply to households earning up to $250,000
- Must have filed the required ANCHOR application
For Renters:
- Must have rented and lived at a qualifying New Jersey residence during the tax year
- Income typically must be below $150,000
- Rent must have included property tax payments indirectly (as part of rent)
- Exact income and residency rules may vary depending on the tax year, so applicants should confirm details with the NJ Division of Taxation.
How Much Are the ANCHOR Rebate Payments?
Payment amounts depend on whether the applicant is a homeowner or renter, as well as their income bracket.
Estimated Payment Ranges:
- Homeowners earning up to $150,000: Up to $1,500
- Homeowners earning $150,001–$250,000: Around $1,000
- Renters earning up to $150,000: Around $450
These payouts will be issued either through direct deposit or paper checks, depending on what the applicant selected.
New Bonus for Senior Citizens
This year brings a major boost for older residents. In addition to the standard ANCHOR rebate, senior citizens aged 65+ may qualify for a “senior bonus” payment, meant to offer extra support as housing costs continue to climb.
The bonus varies, but many seniors could see an additional refund layered on top of their regular ANCHOR benefit, increasing their total payout significantly.
When Will Payments Arrive?
The New Jersey Treasury has confirmed that December payments are scheduled to go out before the end of the month.
Most residents who chose direct deposit should receive funds faster, while mailed checks may take slightly longer to arrive.
Why These Payments Matter
Property taxes in New Jersey are among the highest in the United States. Programs like ANCHOR and the new senior bonus are designed to reduce that burden, especially for middle-income families, older residents, and renters feeling the squeeze of rising costs.
Bottom Line
If you’re a New Jersey homeowner or renter, you may be eligible for a tax rebate arriving in December, with seniors also qualifying for extra payments. Eligible residents are encouraged to check their application status and ensure their banking or mailing details are up to date.
