Kansas will now allow the Kansas Homestead returns to be e-filed. Yeah!!!! While KDOR and preparers had wanted to e-file these returns for years, we couldn't since a copy of the taxpayer's property tax statement had to be attached. Last year, this was changed and opened up e-filing the Homestead.
The Homestead is a rebate on property taxes a taxpayer has paid directly because they own their home or indirectly through rent. The taxpayer has to reside in Kansas, be over 55, or disabled, or have a child under 18. All requirements have to be met for the full year. For 2008 returns, household income must be under $29,700. This includes half of the social security received by the claimant. Household income decides the percentage of the property tax refunded. The max rebate is $700. Check with your preparer to see if you qualify.
A new program this year is the Safe Senior program. It targets low income homeowner who are 65 or older and have total household income below $16,800 (this program requires all Social Security to be counted.) The rebate is set at 45% and there is no cap on the maximum rebate. The Safe Senior (form K-40PT) can be efiled. Again, please check with your tax professional so they can check which program, Homestead or Safe Senior, will be the best for you.
Also, expanded from last year, if Social Security is taxable on a federal return, it can be excluded from Kansas income if the Federal Adjusted Gross Income is $75,000 or less.
