💸 Property Tax Exemptions & Deferrals in King & Snohomish County: 2025 Homeowner’s Guide

If you’re a senior, person with a disability, or on a limited income, you may be eligible for thousands in annual property tax savings. Washington State offers generous property tax exemption and deferral programs — but many homeowners don’t know they qualify.

Here’s everything you need to know to lower your tax burden in King County or Snohomish County for the 2025 tax year.

🧾 What Are Property Tax Exemptions and Deferrals?

• Exemptions: Reduce or eliminate certain property taxes — permanently, without repayment.

• Deferrals: Delay property tax payments until the property is sold or ownership changes. Taxes accrue interest but are not due annually.

These programs are designed to support retired, disabled, and lower-income homeowners.

✅ Property Tax Exemption Program

📌 Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for 2025:

• Age 61+ by Dec 31, 2024, OR

  • Disabled or disabled veteran (80%+ rating)

  • Surviving spouse of qualifying owner (age 57+)

• Own and occupy your home as your primary residence for 6+ months

• Household income under:

  • $75,000 in Snohomish County

  • $84,000 in King County

💡 Note: “Household income” includes most sources of income but allows deductions for out-of-pocket medical expenses and insurance premiums.

💰 How Much Can You Save?

Your assessed value is reduced, and some levies are completely removed.



🆓 You’ll Also Be Exempt From:

• State Part 2 School Levy

• Voter-approved excess levies (e.g., fire, EMS, parks, schools)

🔄 Is It Permanent?

Once approved, your assessed value is frozen, and relief may be retroactive up to 3 years. Most counties reverify eligibility every 3–6 years.

🕓 Property Tax Deferral Program

If your income is just above the exemption threshold, the deferral program might be a great fit.

👥 Who Can Qualify?

There are two options:

1. Senior & Disability Deferral

• Age 60+ OR disabled by Dec 31, 2024

• Own and occupy your home

• Household income:

  • $79,578 in Snohomish County

  • $88,998 in King County

2. Limited Income Deferral

• No age requirement

• 5+ years living in home

• Household income: Under $57,000

📊 Key Deferral Details

You must have sufficient home equity and maintain fire insurance. The State of Washington will become a lienholder on your property.

📝 How to Apply for an Exemption or Deferral

📦 Step-by-Step:

1. Download the application from your county’s website

2. Gather income documents (2024) and proof of expenses

3. Submit completed application to your County Assessor’s Office

4. Wait for verification and approval

🕐 It may take several months — start early in the year and be prepared to provide additional documentation if needed.

📍 County Resources & Links

King County

• Exemption Program: https://kingcounty.gov/assessor

• Phone: 206-296-3920

Snohomish County

• Exemption Program: https://snohomishcountywa.gov/assessor

• Phone: 425-388-3433

🙋 Need Help Navigating the Application?

We’ve helped dozens of clients in Edmonds, Lynnwood, Shoreline, and beyond determine their eligibility — and sometimes even get retroactive refunds.

📞 Call/Text: 206 489 4920

📩 Email: Team@ReeceHomes.com

🏡 Don’t Leave Tax Relief on the Table

If you or someone you know may qualify, don’t wait — exemptions and deferrals can be life-changing for those on a fixed or limited income.

Let’s make sure you’re not paying more than your fair share.