General Relief Policy - Department of Public Social Services

Property Services referrals should not be made
except in extraordinary circumstances when the value
or status of property cannot be determined.
GR 42-208.4 –
Homeowner’s Tax
Exemption
Are real property owners required to file a
Homeowner’s Tax Exemption?
Yes, individuals who own real property, and use it as
a home, are required to file a Homeowner’s Tax
Exemption.
• Emergency aid may be issued pending filing, if
otherwise eligible.
• Viewing the Homeowner’s Tax Exemption receipt
or the current property tax bill is sufficient
verification.
• Documentation of the filing is to be entered in the
Case Comments.
GR 42-209 – Real
Property Not Used as a
Home
Can an individual own real property not used as a
home?
Yes, real property not used as a home may be
retained, provided:
• The total value of real property does not exceed
$34,000 in assessed value, even if the individual
is a part owner, and
• The individual agrees to make a continuous and
genuine effort to sell the property at a fair market
price, subject to the limits spelled out in sections
below.
• A continuous and genuine effort consists of, but is
not limited to, any of the following:
‣ “For Sale” sign in front of the property.
‣ Newspaper advertisements.
‣ Listing with a real estate agent.
• Funds from the sale of the property must be used
by the individual to meet needs and/or to repay
GR received.
• At intake individuals have up to one year from
the date of GR application to sell the property.
Approved individuals have up to one year from
the date of notification to sell the property.