If you’re a New Jersey senior or disabled person waiting for your Senior Freeze tax refund, understanding the payment schedule can help you plan your finances accordingly. The Senior Freeze Program reimburses eligible residents for property tax increases on their principal residence, effectively “freezing” your tax burden at your base year amount.
Payment Schedule Based on Application Date
The timing of your Senior Freeze refund depends entirely on when you submitted your application. New Jersey follows a rolling payment schedule:
- Applications filed before May 1: Checks begin issuing July 15
- Applications filed May 1 – June 1: Payments start September 1
- Applications filed June 2 – September 1: Checks issued beginning November 1
- Applications filed September 2 – October 31: Payments begin December 1
Important Changes for 2025
Starting in 2025, New Jersey has streamlined the process with a single combined application for Senior Freeze, ANCHOR, and the new Stay NJ programs. This means you’ll file one application and receive benefits from all programs you qualify for.
Direct deposits will begin by August 1, 2025, while paper checks continue on the rolling schedule above. The application deadline remains October 31, 2025.
Checking Your Status
You can monitor your refund status online through the New Jersey Division of Taxation website or call the Senior Freeze hotline at 1-800-882-6597. The state typically issues payments weekly as applications are processed and approved.
Remember, early filing means earlier payment, so submit your application as soon as possible to receive your refund more quickly.