Property Tax Exemption for Blind Homeowners: What You Need to Know
If you are legally blind and own a home, you may qualify for a property tax exemption in most states. Blind homeowners are specifically recognized in many state tax codes and receive dedicated exemptions or enhanced benefits. These exemptions can reduce your property tax bill by hundreds to thousands of dollars per year.
Here is what is available, who qualifies, and how to apply.
TL;DR
- Most states offer property tax exemptions for legally blind homeowners
- Benefits range from $2,000 off assessed value to full tax elimination
- Legal blindness is typically defined as corrected visual acuity of 20/200 or less, or visual field of 20 degrees or less
- Documentation required: certificate from ophthalmologist or state commission for the blind
- Blind homeowners often qualify for the same exemptions as seniors 65+ and disabled homeowners
What Counts as Legally Blind for Property Tax Purposes?
Most states use the standard definition of legal blindness:
- Best corrected visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye, OR
- Visual field of 20 degrees or less in the better eye
Some states also recognize "legally blind" as defined by the state's commission for the blind or department of human services.
State-by-State Blind Homeowner Exemptions
| State | Exemption Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | $161,083-$241,627 off assessed value | Same as Disabled Veteran's Exemption for blind persons |
| Connecticut | $3,000 off assessed value | Specific blind person exemption |
| Florida | $500 off assessed value | Specific blind person exemption, plus other disability exemptions if qualifying |
| Illinois | $2,000 off EAV | Persons with Disabilities Exemption covers blind homeowners |
| Iowa | Up to $1,000 credit | Through Elderly/Disabled Credit program |
| Maine | $4,000 off assessed value | Specific blind person exemption |
| Massachusetts | $500 exemption (Clause 37) | Specific clause for legally blind persons |
| Minnesota | Same as general disability exemption | Market value exclusion applies |
| Nevada | $30,800 off assessed value | Same as disabled veteran exemption for blind persons |
| New Jersey | $250 property tax deduction | Specific deduction for blind persons |
| New York | Up to 50% off assessed value | Through disability exemption if income-eligible |
| Oregon | Varies | Through Senior/Disabled exemption programs |
| Washington | Partial to full exemption | Through Senior/Disabled Exemption based on income |
How to Apply
Documentation Needed
- Certificate of legal blindness from a licensed ophthalmologist
- Letter from your state commission for the blind (if applicable)
- Proof of primary residence
- Government-issued ID
- Income documentation (if required by your state)
Where to Apply
Apply at your county assessor's office or local tax authority. Bring all documentation. In some states, you may also need to file with a state agency.
Deadlines
Deadlines vary by state, typically falling between January and June. Check with your local assessor for your specific deadline.
Stacking With Other Exemptions
Blind homeowners can often combine the blind person exemption with other benefits:
- Homestead exemption
- Senior exemptions (if 65+)
- General disability exemptions
- Veteran exemptions (if applicable)
Always ask about every exemption you might qualify for. The combined savings from multiple exemptions add up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be totally blind to qualify?
No. You need to be legally blind, which is defined as best corrected visual acuity of 20/200 or less OR a visual field of 20 degrees or less. You do not need to have zero vision.
Can I get both a blind exemption and a disability exemption?
In some states, yes. In others, you may need to choose one or the other. Check with your local assessor for stacking rules in your state.
Does the exemption transfer to a new home?
The exemption applies to you, not the home. If you move, you need to apply for the exemption at your new address.
Check All Your Exemptions
You may qualify for more exemptions than just the blind person benefit. Our free assessment analyzer identifies every exemption available to you and checks whether your property assessment is accurate.
Check your exemptions now and find out what savings you are missing.