New Jersey homeowners and renters are in line to receive financial relief starting March 2025 through the state’s ANCHOR (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters) program. This $1,750 stimulus isn’t a federal check—it’s a targeted initiative addressing sky-high property taxes and rent burdens. Whether you own or rent, knowing your eligibility and how payments work is key to making the most of this benefit.
Overview
New Jersey’s ANCHOR program replaces the old Homestead Rebate and aims to deliver broader relief to more residents. With one of the highest property tax rates in the country, the state recognizes the need to ease the burden, especially for middle-income homeowners and renters.
Here’s a quick glance at how the 2025 ANCHOR payout looks:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | ANCHOR Program (New Jersey-specific) |
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,750 |
| Eligibility | Homeowners earning ≤ $250K; Renters earning ≤ $150K |
| Homeowners’ Benefit | $1,500 for ≤ $150K income; $1,000 for $150,001–$250,000 |
| Renters’ Benefit | $450 for renters earning ≤ $150K |
| Key Date | Must have lived in residence on October 1, 2023 |
| Application Deadline | November 30, 2025 |
| Payment Start Date | March 2025 (rolling distribution) |
ANCHOR
The ANCHOR Program is all about tackling property tax stress. It’s New Jersey’s way of directly helping those who need it most. And unlike past programs, it now includes renters—a major step forward in addressing housing affordability across the state.
So whether you’re dealing with climbing tax bills or rising rent, ANCHOR was built with you in mind.
Eligibility
Let’s break it down so you know if you’re in line for a payment.
For Homeowners
- Income must be under $250,000.
- Must have owned and lived in your primary NJ home on October 1, 2023.
- Payment amount:
- $1,500 if income is $150,000 or less.
- $1,000 if income is between $150,001 and $250,000.
For Renters
- Income must be under $150,000.
- Must have rented and lived in a New Jersey residence on October 1, 2023.
- Benefit: $450.
The ANCHOR program recognizes that renters also deal with rising costs, and this payment is meant to help offset those pressures—even if modest.
Application
The application window for this round closed on November 30, 2025. If you applied, here’s what to know:
- You should’ve received a confirmation—hang onto it.
- The state is now verifying eligibility and processing payments.
- Payments go out either via direct deposit (if provided) or paper checks.
Distribution
Here’s how and when you’ll receive your money:
Direct Deposit
If your bank details were submitted with your application, you’ll get paid first—likely in early March.
Paper Check
No banking info? A check will be mailed to your address on file. Make sure your mailing info is up to date with the New Jersey Division of Taxation.
Payments will continue into early 2025 on a rolling basis. If your payment is delayed, check the ANCHOR program portal or contact the Division of Taxation.
Examples
Want to know what this looks like in real life? Here are a couple of quick scenarios:
John and Sarah
They own a home and earn $140,000 a year. That puts them in line for the $1,500 payment. Their property tax bill is $9,000, so this check covers nearly 17%—a solid chunk of relief.
Maria
Maria is a single renter earning $50,000 a year. She qualifies for $450, which she’ll use to help cover her winter heating bills.
Maximize
Want to get the most out of the ANCHOR program now and in future years? Here’s how:
- Keep tax info up to date: Make sure your income and address details are correct.
- Check payment status: Use the ANCHOR portal to track when your check is on the way.
- Plan ahead: Missed the deadline? Set reminders to apply early next time.
- Ask for help: If you’re unsure about eligibility or paperwork, reach out to a tax advisor or local resource center.
Common Concerns
Nope—ANCHOR payments are not taxable income.
What if I moved?
Eligibility depends on your address as of October 1, 2023. If you moved after that, your old address still counts—but make sure your current mailing info is updated.
Will there be more payments?
Likely yes. The ANCHOR program has been consistently funded in recent years. Keep an eye out for announcements about the next cycle, which could launch later in 2025.
If you applied on time and met the criteria, the $1,750 ANCHOR stimulus is on its way. While not federal aid, this New Jersey-specific program is doing its part to keep families, homeowners, and renters financially afloat.
FAQs
When do ANCHOR payments begin?
Payments will start rolling out in March 2025.
Who qualifies for the $1,750 amount?
Homeowners with income under $150,000 qualify for $1,500; renters get $450.
Is the payment taxable?
No, ANCHOR payments are not considered taxable income.
How will I receive my payment?
By direct deposit or mailed check, depending on your application.
Can I still apply for this payment?
No, the deadline was November 30, 2025.
