Stop Overpaying: The Hidden Property Tax Break Most Homeowners Miss

When homeowners first buy a home, they generally have no idea they are paying too much for property taxes. Here’s a quick guide for homeowners looking for relief from soaring King & Snohomish County property taxes before 2026. Applying for an Agricultural Valuation in King County: An Overview Many of our North Coastal neighbors may receive a bit of sticker shock when they receive their 2026 property tax statements this month. But there is a powerful relief program available to homeowners to alleviate this burden and you may be overpaying if you don't know about it. 

Another way that some senior citizens and people with disabilities get to lower their annual property taxes is through a Senior Citizens and People with Disabilities Property Tax Exemption (exempt amount). This exemption is different from a tax deferment in that it is an actual exemption from your taxes and you do not have to pay it back. 

Do You Qualify for 2026? For eligibility in this year's tax bill, household status and income must be that of 2025. Below is what that looks like for our local area. 

Qualification King County Snohomish County Income Limit $84,000 or less $75,000 or less 

Age Requirement 61+ by Dec. 31, 2025 61+ by Dec. 31, 2025 

Disability Status Retired due to physical disability Retired due to physical disability

Residency Must be your principal home Must be your principal home Expert Insight: 2027! 

Washington state is moving quickly with recent legislation (SB 6162) being signed into law. As a direct result of this legislation, the King County exemption will jump to $100,000 for the upcoming tax year. 

💰 Don't Leave Money on the Table If you previously met the same criteria in past years, you can also claim a refund for up to three years and receive a refund for 2026 immediately by stopping the overpayment. Keep in mind that you will still have until October 31, 2029 to file for a refund for 2026, but claiming now is better than waiting.

 🚀 How to Apply We will need to review your 2025 tax returns, your Social Security statements, and any 1099s in the application process. King County residents may apply online at Senior Exemption Portal or call 206-296-3920 for assistance with application. Snohomish County residents may download an application packet from snohomishcountywa.gov or pick one up at the Assessor’s Office, Snohomish County PUD Administration Building, 3000 Rockefeller Ave, Everett. 

The Bottom Line: You've worked hard for your home. Now work hard to keep as much of your equity as possible. Save and make sure you understand how refinance can work for you and share this support with others who may not know it's available.