Track Your ANCHOR Check: Application, Status, and Payment Guide

The ANCHOR program, which stands for Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters, offers significant tax relief to eligible homeowners and renters in New Jersey. Payments for this program began rolling out on September 15, 2023. However, there is still time for potential applicants to submit their requests for assistance.

Important Dates and Payment Details

The expected timeline for receiving the ANCHOR payments is within 90 days after applying. Payments are issued on a rolling basis, so recipients can expect their funds sooner than they may anticipate. Options for payment processing include:

• Direct deposit for online applicants.
• Paper checks for those who file using a paper form.

Checking Your ANCHOR Payment Status

You can track the status of your ANCHOR payment by visiting the official ANCHOR website. There, you can utilize the “check benefit status” tool for updates on your application.

Benefit Amounts for ANCHOR Program

The ANCHOR program offers varying benefit amounts based on the applicant’s age and residency status:

• Homeowners aged 65 or older: up to $1,750.
• Homeowners under 65: up to $1,500.
• Renters aged 65 or older: up to $700.
• Renters under 65: up to $450.

The benefit amount is determined by the applicant’s gross income and is capped at the amount of property taxes paid in the qualifying year.

Eligibility Criteria for ANCHOR Program

To qualify for the ANCHOR program, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Homeowners: Must have owned and occupied their New Jersey residence by October 1, 2024, paid property taxes, and have a state gross income of $250,000 or less.
• Renters: Must have rented and occupied a taxable rental unit by October 1, 2024, be named on the lease, paid rent, and have a state gross income of $150,000 or less.

For residents aged 65 and older or receiving Social Security disability benefits, a combined application form for the Senior Freeze, ANCHOR, and Stay NJ programs is available. Submitting this form automatically applies for all three programs.

How to Apply for the ANCHOR Program

Most eligible homeowners and renters under 65 who did not receive a confirmation letter may need to apply independently online. The online application form will remain accessible until October 31, 2023. Those who received a letter in August were instructed to update banking information or decline filing by September 15, 2023.

For further information or assistance regarding the ANCHOR program, residents can visit El-Balad for comprehensive updates.