Missoula Property Tax Postponement: Tax Relief Options for Senior & Disabled Homeowners
As property values in the Missoula Valley continue to rise, many long-time residents—especially seniors on fixed incomes and those with disabilities—are feeling the “tax squeeze.” However, the State of Montana offers several powerful programs designed to lower your tax burden and keep you in your home.
Whether you’re looking for the new 2026 Homestead Exemption or the Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP), understanding these deadlines is the first step toward financial relief.
1. The New 2026 Montana Homestead Exemption
Starting in 2026, Montana has implemented a new tiered tax structure that favors primary residences.
- The Benefit: If you live in your Missoula home for at least 7 months a year, your tax rate is now tiered. For homes valued up to the statewide median (approx. $378,000), the tax rate is reduced to just 0.76%.
- Do You Need to Apply? If you received a property tax rebate in 2025, you might be automatically enrolled. However, if you recently moved or missed the rebate, the deadline to manually enroll at Homestead.mt.gov is March 1, 2026.
2. Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP)
The PTAP is Montana’s primary “safety net” for low-income homeowners. It provides a significant percentage reduction (30%, 50%, or 80%) on the first $418,000 of your home’s market value.
- 2026 Income Limits:
- Single Applicants: Income must be less than $29,037.
- Married/Head of Household: Income must be less than $38,917.
- Deadline: Applications must be postmarked or submitted electronically to the Montana Department of Revenue by April 15, 2026.
3. Montana Elderly Homeowner/Renter Tax Credit
Even if you don’t owe state income tax, you may still be eligible for a refundable tax credit of up to $1,150.
- Who Qualifies? Missoula residents age 62 or older with a total household income under $45,000.
- The “Renter” Bonus: Unlike other programs, this credit also applies to seniors who rent their homes or live in long-term care facilities, helping to offset the property taxes passed down through rent.
4. Montana Disabled Veterans (MDV) Assistance
For 100% disabled veterans or their unmarried surviving spouses, Montana offers one of the most generous tax relief programs in the country.
- The Benefit: Depending on income, the property tax on your primary residence could be reduced to 0%.
- Requirement: You must live in the home for at least 7 months out of the year and provide a letter from the VA confirming your 100% disability status.
Why Local Information Matters for Your Tax Health
At Tax Relief Advisers, we believe that tax relief is about more than just settling debt with the IRS—it’s about maximizing every local exemption available to you.
Often, a high property tax bill is the “trigger” that causes a homeowner to fall behind on their federal or state income taxes. By securing these Missoula-specific exemptions, you free up cash flow and prevent larger tax problems before they start.
Missoula Property Tax FAQ
Q: Can I apply for property tax assistance if I have a mortgage? A: Yes. Whether your home is paid off or you are still making payments, you are eligible for these relief programs as long as you meet the income and occupancy requirements.
Q: Where is the Missoula Department of Revenue office? A: If you prefer to file your PTAP application in person, the local field office is located at 2681 Palmer St, Ste I, Missoula, MT 59808.
Q: What if I missed the April 15th deadline for PTAP? A: If you miss the deadline, your application will be considered for the following tax year. However, you should still check if you qualify for the Elderly Homeowner Credit, which can sometimes be claimed retroactively.