Senior Exemption
 
The 2003 General Assemploy has rescinded the funding for the Senior Homestead Exemption, due to the near $1 billion deficit in the state budget.

The Assessor's office will continue to administer the Exemption program.  It was established by constitutional amendment and cannot be abolished wihtout another vote of the electorate. The proper maintenance of the program will be paramount to our office so that in the event funding is restored, and you were previously approved, you will not have to take any action...the Exemption would automatically be restored to you.
 
 
Ladies & Gentlemen:

In November 2000, Referendum A, also known as the Senior Homestead Exemption Act, was approved as an addition to the Colorado Constitution. The Act took effect as of January 1, 2002, for property taxes payable in 2003 and will remain in effect every year hereafter. Specifically, the Act grants an exemption (reduction) up to one-half of the first $200,000 in market value from property taxes for a qualifying residential owner. If approved, you will receive a tax reduction on your tax bill payable next year.
 
The three criteria for qualifying for the exemption are;
  1. the qualifying senior must be at least 65 years of age as of January 1 in the year they apply,
  2. the qualifying senior must have been the owner of record of the property for at least ten consecutive years prior to January 1 in the year they apply,
  3. the qualifying senior must occupy the property as their primary residence and must have done so for at least ten consecutive years prior to January 1 in the year they apply.
 
Surviving spouses criteria: (If survivor does not meet age & title requirements).
  1. My spouse passed away on or after January 1, 2002; and
  2. My spouse was at least 65 years old on January 1 of the year he/she passed away; and
  3. My spouse occupied the property as his/her primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years prior to    January 1 of the year he/she passed away; and
  4. My spouse occupied the property with me as his/her primary residence; and
  5. I currently occupy the property as my primary residence and have not remarried.
 
If you meet the requirements as stated above, please complete the enclosed application and return it to the Assessor's office by July 15.

Most respectfully,

Ambie Cullens
Cheyenne County Assessor