Deadline nears to apply for real property tax relief, exemptions

If you are a primary resident of the island and not already receiving a home exemption or related tax credit, you could be eligible to file a claim to reduce the real property taxes on your home.

The deadline to apply for 2024 real property tax relief and exemptions is Oct. 2.

To qualify for a home exemption, a homeowner must have occupied their property as their principal home for more than 270 days and filed a 2022 Hawai‘i income tax return. They also must provide a valid Hawai‘i driver’s license or state-issued ID and not claim primary residency elsewhere.

New owners who recently purchased a property with an existing home exemption and homestead or commercialized home use tax classification from the prior owners must apply for the owner-occupied or owner-occupied mixed-use tax classification and their own home exemption to receive a reduction.

The combined gross income threshold for all owner-occupants for the additional home exemption is $96,600. Credits include the limitation of taxes for home preservation and the low-income tax credit.

Approved property owners who rent their properties at or below 90% of the Kaua‘i median household income also can qualify for the lowest tax rate through the long-term affordable rental program. If there are any questions regarding the continuing status of a multi-year lease agreement, property owners are encouraged to contact the Kaua‘i County Real Property Assessment Office or file prior to the Oct. 2 deadline.

Failure to notify the assessor of any change to current tax relief status subjects the property to back taxes and a civil penalty for each year the change is unreported.

Exemption or tax credit forms are available at the Kaua‘i County Real Property Assessment Office, located in Suite 454 at 4444 Rice St. in Līhu‘e, or online. Some forms also can be submitted online.

For additional information, including all possible exemptions, call 808-241-4224.