NEW JERSEY - Living in New Jersey isn't cheap. Between property taxes and the cost of living, every dollar counts. But there is a decent chance the state government is currently holding money that belongs to you—and they are trying to give it back.
The New Jersey Unclaimed Property Administration is safeguarding billions in lost assets. This includes uncashed payroll checks, forgotten utility deposits, dormant bank accounts, and even the contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes. But "lost" money isn't the only way to get a check from the state in 2026. With the massive ANCHOR program and the Senior Freeze, the state is distributing historic amounts of property tax relief—but you have to know how to claim it.
Here is your guide to finding the money that belongs to you in the Garden State.
1. The Unclaimed Property Administration
New Jersey’s unclaimed property pot is massive. If a business loses contact with you (usually for three years), they must turn your assets over to the state. This happens more often than you think—especially with old security deposits from rentals or forgotten savings accounts.
How to Check:
- Go to the Official Site: Visit unclaimedproperty.nj.gov.
- Search for Yourself: Enter your name. It is free to search and free to claim.
- Don't Ignore Small Amounts: Even if the claim is small, it confirms your current address in the system, which can help prevent future assets from getting lost.
2. The ANCHOR Program (Up to $1,750)
If you haven't heard of ANCHOR (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters), you are missing out on the state's largest tax relief program. It replaced the old Homestead Benefit and is much more generous.
The Payouts:
- Homeowners: Can receive up to $1,500 (or $1,750 if over age 65).
- Renters: Can receive $450 (or $700 if over age 65).
Crucial Update: Unlike many tax deductions, this is a direct benefit payment. If you filed for a previous year, check your status online. If you are a new homeowner or renter, you must file to get into the system. The filing windows typically open in the fall, so keep a close watch on the Division of Taxation website.
3. The "Senior Freeze" (Property Tax Reimbursement)
If you are a senior citizen, you know that property taxes in NJ only seem to go up. The Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement) program is designed to stop that pain.
It essentially "freezes" your property tax rate at the level it was when you first applied. The state then cuts you a check for the difference between your "frozen" rate and the current higher rate.
Who is eligible?
- You must be age 65 or older (or receiving federal disability benefits).
- You must have lived in New Jersey continuously for at least 10 years.
- You must have owned and lived in your current home for the last 3 years.
- Income limits apply (checks are adjusted annually).
Deadline: The deadline to file usually falls on October 31, but the state often extends it. Do not disqualify yourself by assuming you earn too much—check the new limits for 2026.
4. Utility Debt Relief (PAGE & LIHEAP)
If you are falling behind on PSEG, JCP&L, or Atlantic City Electric bills this winter, you might qualify for the PAGE (Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric) program.
Unlike LIHEAP (which is federally funded and has stricter income limits), PAGE is state-funded and designed for moderate-income households who are struggling to pay a past-due balance.
- Benefit: It can provide up to $1,500 towards electric and gas bills.
- Requirement: You generally must have a past-due balance and not be receiving other welfare benefits.
Action Plan: 3 Steps to Take Today
- Search the Database: Go to unclaimedproperty.nj.gov right now.
- Check Your ANCHOR Status: If you haven't received your ANCHOR benefit, verify your application status on the NJ Division of Taxation website immediately.
- Forward to Seniors: If you have parents over 65 in NJ, ask them: "Are you signed up for the Senior Freeze?" It could save them thousands of dollars over the next few years.
