Lewis County Assessor says more citizens may become eligible for tax exemptions

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Lewis County Assessor Ross Nielson inside his office in the Lewis County courthouse.

CHEHALIS – Lewis County seniors and persons with disabilities stand to benefit from new low income property tax exemptions.

“Median income for the county appears to be increasing, and tax reduction exemption thresholds are being increased, which will likely mean more people will be eligible to take part in this exemption, and those that already qualify may receive a greater reduction in taxes,” Lewis County Assessor Ross Nielson said. “We are waiting on the official calculations from the Washington State Department of Revenue, and it appears that it will be beneficial to many eligible homeowners in our county.”

To qualify for benefits, you will need to meet specific age and disability criteria:

  • 61 years of age by December 31st of the prior year of the benefit tax year.
  • Disabled or a veteran with at least an 80% total disability rating.
  • Own the residence as of December 31st of the prior year of the benefit tax year (e.g. 2023 benefit tax year must own by 12/31/2022).
  • Occupy as a primary residence.

Once qualified, a property owner continues to benefit from the exemption, but any change in status or income, must be reported to the assessor.

Citizens can fill out required forms using last year’s tax documents by clicking on the link: https://lewiscountywa.gov/offices/assessor/senior-disabled-persons-exemption/

“The new tax exemption calculations should definitely help those who need the tax reduction the most,” Nielson added. “We will likely find more people that are eligible.”

The Lewis County Assessor’s Office staff is available to answer any questions, and would welcome phone calls to 360-740-1392, and visits to the Assessor’s office inside the county courthouse, 351 NW North St. in Chehalis, to discuss the changes in state law.

Posted: July 12, 2023