It hit me like a ton of bricks the year my property taxes were due, and I simply didn’t have the money to pay. Like many homeowners, I had budgeted for my mortgage but overlooked the tax bill that arrived each year like clockwork. I was worried about losing my home—after all, unpaid property taxes can lead to serious consequences like liens or even foreclosure. Thankfully, I found that there are charities and programs out there that can help. If you’re in a similar situation, let me walk you through how you can get the assistance you need to keep your home secure.
Why Some Charities Help with Property Taxes
Property taxes are essential for funding local services, but they can also become a major burden for homeowners—especially those on fixed incomes like retirees, or people who’ve recently fallen on hard times. Charities step in to help because they know that keeping people in their homes is vital for community stability. These organizations recognize that sometimes, all you need is a little assistance to avoid falling into a financial hole that can be tough to climb out of.
How Property Tax Assistance Works
Unlike rent assistance, help with property taxes is somewhat rarer, but it does exist. Many of the charities that help with taxes are focused on supporting low-income individuals, the elderly, or those with disabilities. Typically, they offer grants, interest-free loans, or even direct payments to cover tax bills.
Let’s go over some of the top organizations and programs that offer property tax assistance.
National Charities That May Help with Property Taxes
1. The Salvation Army
While best known for rent and utility assistance, the Salvation Army also provides help with property taxes in certain cases. Depending on where you live, you may qualify for emergency financial aid that can be used to pay overdue taxes and avoid foreclosure.
- How to Apply: Visit your local Salvation Army branch or contact them online to inquire if they offer property tax relief in your area.
- Who Can Benefit: Low-income homeowners, particularly seniors, families with children, and those facing an immediate threat of foreclosure due to unpaid taxes.
2. Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities is another organization that doesn’t limit its assistance to just rent or utilities. In some cases, they extend their help to property taxes, especially if unpaid taxes are threatening to displace you from your home.
- How to Apply: Check with your local Catholic Charities branch to see if they have programs specifically targeting property tax help.
- Who Can Benefit: Homeowners in financial distress, particularly the elderly, disabled individuals, and families with low incomes.
3. Modest Needs
This unique charity offers small emergency grants to people who are working but can’t make ends meet due to an unexpected financial emergency—like a sudden property tax bill. Modest Needs focuses on individuals and families that are just above the poverty line and don’t qualify for government assistance.
- How to Apply: Submit an application through their website, explaining your financial situation and the amount you need.
- Who Can Benefit: Low-income homeowners with a temporary financial need that could lead to eviction or foreclosure.
Government and Community-Based Programs for Property Tax Relief
Beyond national charities, there are local programs designed specifically to help homeowners with property taxes. Many of these are government-run, but they often partner with non-profits to distribute funds or offer counseling services.
1. Property Tax Exemption Programs
Many states offer property tax exemptions for specific groups, such as veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities. If you fall into one of these categories, you might be able to reduce your tax bill significantly.
- How to Apply: Visit your county or state tax assessor’s website to find out if you’re eligible for an exemption, and follow the instructions to apply.
- Who Can Benefit: Seniors, veterans, disabled homeowners, and low-income families.
2. Property Tax Deferral Programs
Some states offer property tax deferral programs that allow qualifying homeowners to defer (or postpone) their property tax payments until they sell the home or pass away. This option is usually available to senior citizens, people with disabilities, and those who meet low-income thresholds.
- How to Apply: Contact your local tax authority to find out if your state or county offers deferrals and how to apply.
- Who Can Benefit: Elderly homeowners, disabled individuals, and low-income property owners.
3. Local Community Action Agencies
Community Action Agencies (CAAs) often provide financial aid and counseling services for low-income individuals facing tax foreclosure. These agencies work at the local level and have close relationships with charities and government programs that offer property tax relief.
- How to Apply: Search for your state or city’s CAA and inquire about property tax assistance.
- Who Can Benefit: Low-income homeowners at risk of foreclosure due to unpaid taxes.
Avoiding Property Tax Issues in the Future
Once you’ve gotten help with your current property taxes, it’s important to plan ahead to avoid falling into the same situation again. Here are a few strategies that can help:
- Set Up a Tax Escrow Account: Many mortgage lenders offer the option of setting up an escrow account for property taxes. This way, your taxes are paid along with your monthly mortgage payment, and you won’t be hit with a large bill once a year.
- Budget for Taxes Throughout the Year: Even if you don’t have an escrow account, make it a point to set aside money each month for property taxes. Apps like YNAB (You Need A Budget) can help you track these payments and stay on top of your finances.
- Seek Financial Counseling: Many non-profits and local government agencies offer free or low-cost financial counseling services. They can help you create a plan to budget for your taxes and other essential expenses.
- Apply for Exemptions Early: If you qualify for property tax exemptions or deferrals, make sure you apply as early as possible each year. Some programs have deadlines that, if missed, can leave you scrambling to pay the full amount.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling to pay your property taxes, remember that you’re not alone, and there are options to help you keep your home safe. Charities like the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities, along with local government programs, can provide the financial assistance you need to avoid foreclosure. Be proactive—start looking into these options today, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Keeping a roof over your head is the priority, and there’s no shame in getting the support you need to do just that.