Elderly

3RSA 72:39-a: Elderly Exemption (as adopted by the Bedford Town Council)

Exemption Amounts
Amount is based upon age as of April 1 of the applicable tax year 
Age
Amount (assessed value figure)
65-74
$90,100
75-79
$96,100
80+
$141,600


Exemption applications must be filed or postmarked by April 15 of the application year. The application is permanent as long as you own your home or until your financial circumstances change. The Assessor(s) will review your application during subsequent tax years (5-year cycles) to determine the continuation of eligibility. You must notify the Assessing Staff if you no longer qualify because of changes in income or assets (subject to all applicable laws and penalties).  

The Bedford Assessors Office HIGHLY recommends calling ahead to schedule an appointment to review application documents and discuss questions: (603) 472-8104.

Age Requirement

Applicant must be 65 years old before April 1 of the tax year for which the application is being made.

Income Requirement (2023)* 

Single:    $54,360
Married: $73,240   
* Figures are based on 4 times the 2022 Federal Poverty Level (amount subject to change annually).

Income:

  • Dividend/interest income

  • Social Security

  • Rental income

  • Support from others

  • Retirement/pension payments

  • Wages


The following is not counted as income:

  • Expenses and costs incurred in the course of conducting a business enterprise

  • Life insurance paid on the death of an insured

  • Proceeds from the sale of assets

Documentation
You may be asked to provide a copy of your Federal and State income Tax returns.  

The review of bank accounts, investment funds, retirement accounts, etc. will also 
be required.

Assets
Net Assets (excluding the value of your actual residence) may not exceed $150,000. 
This includes:

  • Checking accounts

  • CDs

  • Savings accounts

  • Additional real estate

  • Stocks

  • Cars

  • Bonds

  • Expensive jewelry

  • IRAs



Land as an Asset
You can exclude the greater of up to two acres or the minimum zoning lot size for a residence in your zoning district. The remainder of the land is included in the $150,000 limit at the fair market value and not the assessed value. “Net Assets” means the value of all assets tangible and intangible, minus the value of any good faith encumbrances.

Residential Requirements
You must have resided in the state for at least 3 years and owned your home individually or jointly on April 1st in the tax year for which you are applying. If the real estate is owned by your spouse, you must have been married for at least 5 years. 

More information on credits and exemptions can be found HERE. To reach the Bedford Assessor's office, please call us during normal business hours: (603) 472-8104 


The amount of the exemption is subtracted from the total assessment before the rate is applied. The exemption amount is set by the Town Council.