On November 9, 2025, The Spokesman-Review published a guest opinion about property tax relief programs for seniors and disabled persons in Spokane County. The article was written by the county treasurer and assessor. It discusses concerns about rising property taxes and the risk that some residents may not be able to stay in their homes.
The main program is Washington state’s Senior Citizen and Disabled Persons property tax exemption. The Spokane County Assessor’s Office manages this program. It is for residents over 61 years old, people who cannot work due to disability, or veterans with an 80% or higher VA disability rating. Applicants must own and live in their homes for more than six months and have a gross annual household income of $50,000 or less.
The exemption has three levels. Each level offers more tax relief based on income. At the highest level, eligible homeowners are exempt from excess levies and part of the state school levy. Other levels provide exemptions on regular levies. The amount is based on a percentage of the home’s assessed value or a set dollar amount, whichever is higher…