Seniors can get payment for housing costs

Seniors may receive free assistance in completing Homeowner and Renter Assistance application forms from Tues., July 17 through Oct. 9 at the Active Adult Center, 799 Moorpark Ave., Moorpark.

This assistance is a onceayear reimbursement by the sate of California of a portion of the property taxes paid on the home. For renters, reimbursement is based on the portion of the property taxes presumed paid as part of rent payments.

Applicants must have been age 62, blind or disabled on Dec. 31, 2006, and total 2006 household income from all sources must have been $42,700 or less.

To qualify for homeowner assistance, applicants must have lived in their own home on Dec. 31, 2006. Applicants for renter assistance must have lived in a rented residence for all or part of 2006 and paid rent of $50 or more per month.

Seniors and disabled people with a household income of $31,500 or less have the option of having the state of California pay all or part of the taxes on their homes. The amount of taxes postponed generally does not need to be repaid to the state until the person moves, sells the home or dies. Applicants for this service must bring proof of income from all sources for 2006 and their 2005-06 property tax bill. Eligible people can claim homeowners assistance and property tax postponement in the same year.

Appointments are required and can be made by calling (805) 517-6261.