State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling in Nebraska. Trained counselors go through your costs and choices with you, and they don't sell plans.
Taxes
Nebraska's homestead exemption takes some or all of your home's value off the tax rolls if you are 65 or older and your household income is under the state's limit.
The state pays that part of the tax for you. You apply each year with your county assessor between February 2 and June 30.
| Age | 65 or older before January 1 of the year you apply |
|---|---|
| Household income for any relief, 65 and older, single (2026 applications, based on 2025 income) | $54,300.99 or less (full exemption at $37,000.99 or less) |
| Household income for any relief, 65 and older, married or closely related (2026 applications, based on 2025 income) | $64,500.99 or less (full exemption at $43,400.99 or less) |
| Home | You may qualify if you own the home and live in it from January 1 through August 15 of the year. A stay in a nursing home or assisted living doesn't disqualify you if you intend to return. |
| Home value limit | The exemption shrinks by 10% for each $2,500 your home's value is over your county's maximum value, and ends at $20,000 over |
| What it's worth (2026) | An exemption of 10% to 100%, depending on income, on your home's value up to your county's maximum exempt amount. The state pays the exempted tax to the county. |
|---|---|
| Maximum exempt value, 65 and older, Douglas County (2026) | $302,282 (maximum home value $604,564) |
| Maximum exempt value, 65 and older, Lancaster County (2026) | $333,050 (maximum home value $666,100) |
| Application period (2026) | February 2 to June 30. The county board may extend it to July 20 if you ask in writing. Late filing is also allowed if your spouse died that year or a doctor certifies a medical reason. |
|---|---|
| Renewal | Every year: a new Form 458 and Schedule I |
Where Nebraska's rules differ from the federal rules for Property tax relief for seniors.
Free help
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling in Nebraska. Trained counselors go through your costs and choices with you, and they don't sell plans.
Your local Area Agency on Aging can help with meals, rides, help at home, caregiver support and applying for benefits.
Newsletter
Benefit figures, deadlines and rules change every year. We'll tell you what changed and what to check, about twice a month.