If you're a New Jersey homeowner or renter feeling the pinch of rising property taxes, there's still time to claim up to $1,500 through the state's ANCHOR program. The deadline to apply is November 2, 2026, and officials are urging residents to check their application status online before then.
Marita Sciarrotta, director of the New Jersey Division of Taxation, confirmed that payments are being distributed progressively, with most recipients receiving their funds within 90 days of filing. The state has already mailed over one million confirmation letters to streamline the process, but eligible residents who haven't applied yet should act now.
Who qualifies and how much can you get?
The ANCHOR program offers financial relief based on income and housing status. Homeowners with annual gross incomes up to $150,000 can receive $1,500, while those earning between $150,001 and $250,000 get $1,000. Renters under 65 can receive $450, and seniors aged 65 and older get $700.
To qualify, you must have been a New Jersey resident for the entire tax year and meet the income limits. For homeowners, the property must be your primary residence. Renters need to provide proof of residency and meet the same income criteria.
How to apply and key deadlines
Applications can be submitted online through the state's official portal or by mail. The deadline is November 2, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. If mailing, your application must be postmarked by that date. Late submissions will face delays, so it's best to file early.
First-time applicants will need to complete Form ANC-1, while seniors and individuals with disabilities may use the combined Form PAS-1. The state has also set up a hotline at 1-888-238-1233 for those who need help correcting errors in their bank details, income, or mailing address.
Payments are being issued in phases. Seniors began receiving theirs on September 15, and younger residents who enrolled automatically started getting direct deposits around October 15. The state has processed over 537,000 notices for homeowners and 549,000 for renters so far.
This relief comes as property taxes continue to burden families across the Garden State. In the previous cycle, the state distributed over $2 billion to 1.8 million residents, and this year's program aims to provide similar support.
For those who haven't yet applied, now is the time. The process is straightforward, and the financial boost can make a real difference in your household budget. Don't miss out on this opportunity to ease the strain of high housing costs.
If you're also dealing with other financial matters, you might be interested in finding unclaimed money in Florida or claiming part of a pork price-fixing settlement. And for those in the region, a recent tuna recall is worth noting.
Stay informed and make sure you get the support you're entitled to. The ANCHOR program is a lifeline for many, and the deadline is fast approaching.
