Municipalities can allow a month-long grace period for property tax payments, according to the latest executive order signed by the governor Tuesday. “Allowing municipalities the option of extending the grace period for May property tax payments is the right thing to do as many New Jerseyans are impacted financially as a result of this crisis," Gov. Phil Murphy said. “Leaders of towns and cities across the state have been trying to find ways to lessen the blow on local residents, and with this action, they are empowered to provide relief to homeowners as we continue to do everything possible to fight this pandemic.” The order allows the extension for May 1 payments to June 1. Normally, towns may only allow for a 10-day maximum grace period.
“We understand that many property owners are coping with financial challenges they’ve never had to face before as a result of this pandemic and we are considering every option available to answer their calls for help," said Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, who serves as commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs. “Allowing municipalities to institute this grace period will afford New Jersey property owners who need it some extra time to get their finances in order so they can submit their quarterly property tax payments by June 1st.”
There is currently no mechanism in the law to allow municipalities to extend the grace period as a result of a public health-related emergency. The order signed Tuesday takes effect immediately.
