Colorado Senior Property Tax Exemption (and Other Breaks You Might Be Missing)

Colorado offers property tax relief that many eligible homeowners never claim — and these breaks stack on top of an assessment appeal. Here's what exists and how to use it.

The senior homestead exemption

The senior property tax exemption exempts a portion of a qualifying senior's home value from taxation — historically 50% of the first $200,000 of actual value. To qualify you generally must be 65 or older as of January 1, have owned and lived in the home as your primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years, and apply by the county's deadline (commonly July 15). Surviving spouses of someone who qualified may also be eligible.

The disabled veteran exemption

Colorado extends a similar exemption to veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability (and to certain Gold Star spouses). The benefit mirrors the senior exemption's structure. Application is through your county assessor or the Colorado Division of Property Taxation, and forms and deadlines are published each year.

Other relief to know about

• Property Tax Deferral — lets qualifying seniors and active military, and (in expanded form) other homeowners, defer a portion of taxes as a low-interest state loan.
• The PTC rebate — the Property Tax/Rent/Heat Credit rebate helps low-income seniors and people with disabilities with property tax and other costs.
• Always verify current figures — exemption amounts and rules are adjusted by the legislature; confirm this year's numbers with your assessor.

Lower the value, then claim every break

Start by making sure the value itself is fair — run your free analysis to see whether your assessment is too high — then file for every exemption you qualify for through your county assessor (find yours in our county guides). For the appeal side, our complete appeal guide walks the whole process.