In the evolving economic landscape of the United States, a new stimulus program is taking shape under the name ANCHOR. This initiative, designed specifically for residents of New Jersey, offers one-time stimulus checks to both homeowners and renters, with amounts reaching up to $1,750.
The ANCHOR program stands out as one of the most significant efforts in the state aimed at returning a portion of the property taxes paid by homeowners in New Jersey over time. These payments are not only a direct financial relief but also aim to bolster economic stability within local communities.
A new stimulus check for New Jersey residents
The ANCHOR program is open to both homeowners and renters who meet certain criteria. For renters, the checks can range from $450 to $700, depending on their individual circumstances. On the other hand, homeowners have the opportunity to receive stimulus checks ranging from $1,000 to $1,750, based on the amount of property taxes they have paid.
The process of selecting beneficiaries is designed to be as inclusive as possible. The Division of Taxation of the New Jersey Department of the Treasury has started sending out approximately 15.5 million letters to residents who will receive this money automatically. However, it’s crucial for those interested to keep an eye on their mail, as not everyone will receive the notification at the same time.
A simplified process to receive the benefit
To make access to this benefit easier, the state of New Jersey has implemented a fairly straightforward application system. Those homeowners and renters who meet the criteria will receive specific information packages tailored to their cases. These packages, color-coded for clarity, will include all the necessary information to apply: the purple package is for renters, while the green one is for homeowners.
Inside these packages, recipients will find an identification number and a PIN, essential for completing the application process. The personalization and clarity of these documents are intended to ensure that as many people as possible can access the program without complications.
Support from the state government
Governor Phil Murphy has emphasized the importance of the ANCHOR program as a key measure to improve the affordability of life in New Jersey. In his statements, Murphy has expressed gratitude to the staff of the Treasury Department, particularly the Division of Taxation, for their dedication in making this program accessible and efficient.
This marks the third consecutive year that New Jersey has launched such property tax rebate programs. During the fiscal year 2023, which covered the 2020 period, more than 1.8 million homeowners and renters benefited from the $2.1 billion distributed. The consistency in the program’s execution underscores the state’s commitment to its residents, providing tangible support in times of need.
What to do if you already received the ANCHOR benefit
If you were one of the beneficiaries of the ANCHOR program as a homeowner last year, you are likely to receive a letter in mid-August informing you about the automatic renewal of your application for this year. This means that if your information hasn’t changed, you won’t need to take any further action to receive your stimulus check.
However, if you need to update your address or banking information, you will need to log in to the program’s online submission service and submit a new application by September 15, 2024. This deadline is crucial to ensure that your benefit is processed correctly and on time.
Next steps for new applicants
By the end of August 2024, the state will send out mailings with detailed instructions for those homeowners and renters who wish to apply for the ANCHOR benefit for the first time. It’s essential to follow these instructions carefully, as the application process is the first step to accessing the stimulus checks.
Once the application is submitted, most applicants can expect to receive their payment approximately 90 days later, as long as no additional information is needed to process the application. This timeline ensures that funds reach the hands of beneficiaries efficiently, allowing families and households to plan their use accordingly.
