State Sen. Brian Buchanan (R-Lebanon) is encouraging blind and disabled Hoosiers and senior citizens to apply for newly updated property tax credits by Jan. 15, 2026, to ensure they receive the full benefits available under recent state law changes.
Blind and disabled Hoosiers are now eligible for a $125 Blind/Disabled Property Tax Credit, which replaces the former Blind/Disabled Deduction. Buchanan said eligible residents must apply by the Jan. 15 deadline — even if they previously received the deduction — to avoid any interruption in benefits. Applications are available for download, and assistance is also available through local county auditors’ offices.
Seniors age 65 and older are also encouraged to apply for updated property tax credits following the passage of Senate Enrolled Act 1 (SEA 1-2025), a sweeping property tax relief measure projected to save Indiana homeowners $1.3 billion over the next three years.
Under SEA 1-2025, the former Over 65 Deduction was converted into a more generous $150 Over 65 Credit, ensuring eligible homeowners receive savings even if their property taxes are already capped. The legislation also removed the maximum assessed value limit previously required to qualify for the credit.
In addition, the law expanded eligibility for the Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit, which limits increases in property tax liability on a qualified homestead to no more than 2% compared to the prior year. SEA 1-2025 removed the assessed value cap for eligibility and raised income limits to $60,000 for individuals and $70,000 for couples, allowing more seniors to qualify.
To receive these credits beginning with property taxes paid in calendar year 2026, eligible seniors must apply by Jan. 15, even if they previously received similar benefits.
To qualify for the Over 65 Credit and Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit, applicants must:
Be at least 65 years old on or before Dec. 31 of the year prior to claiming the credit.
File an application with their county auditor by Jan. 15 of the year property taxes are first due.
Submit required documentation verifying eligibility.
Both credits are included on the same form — Application for Senior Citizen Property Tax Benefits (Form 43708) — which can be downloaded online or obtained from a county auditor’s office. Once approved, eligible individuals do not need to reapply annually unless their eligibility changes. Those who become ineligible must notify their county auditor within 60 days.
Hoosiers with questions about eligibility or the application process are encouraged to contact their local county auditor’s office for assistance.