Colorado River Homeowner News | November 11, 2026

2027 Mohave County Property Tax Relief for Disabled Veterans & Surviving Spouses

Important news for homeowners in Bullhead City, Fort Mohave, Mohave Valley, Kingman, Lake Havasu City and throughout Mohave County.

On November 9, 2026, the Mohave County Assessor's Office announced expanded property tax relief for qualifying disabled veterans and surviving spouses.

These changes begin with the 2027 property tax year and could provide significant financial relief to eligible Arizona homeowners, especially veterans, retirees and surviving spouses managing the ongoing costs of homeownership.

What's Changing in 2027?

Arizona legislation approved in June 2026 expands property tax exemption eligibility beginning January 1, 2027.

Surviving Spouses May Qualify for a Full Tax Exemption

One of the most important changes affects widows and widowers of qualifying veterans.

Beginning with the 2027 tax year, an eligible surviving spouse may qualify for a full exemption on their primary residence if the deceased veteran was eligible based on a 100% service-connected disability rating or qualifying TDIU status.

The veteran does not need to have previously received the exemption.

Surviving Spouse Requirements

• The surviving spouse must not have remarried.
• The property must be a qualifying primary residence with eligible ownership.
• Arizona residency requirements must be met.
• Documentation of the veteran's VA disability or TDIU status must be provided.
• The applicant must provide the veteran's death certificate and other required records.
• The application must be submitted and approved by the Assessor's Office.

Surviving spouses should not assume they are ineligible simply because their spouse passed away several years ago. The Assessor's Office can review individual circumstances and determine eligibility.

What About Veterans With Disability Ratings Below 100%?

Qualifying veterans with lower VA disability ratings may receive partial property tax exemptions.

For example, a veteran with a qualifying 70% disability rating may receive 70% of the annual maximum partial exemption amount.

This does not mean their property tax bill is reduced by 70%. Partial exemptions reduce the assessed property value used to calculate taxes. Actual savings vary.

Eligible surviving spouses may also receive partial exemptions based on the deceased veteran's qualifying disability rating.

Does This Apply to Second Homes, Vacation Homes or Rentals?

The full exemption applies to an eligible applicant's qualifying primary residence.

It does not automatically apply to vacation properties, rental homes, second residences or separately owned vacant land.

This is particularly important in the Colorado River region, where many homeowners maintain seasonal residences or own investment property.

How to Apply for the 2027 Property Tax Exemption

The regular application period begins on the first Monday in January and runs through March 1, 2027.

Applicants should prepare the following documentation, as applicable:

1. Arizona identification and proof of residency.
2. Property ownership and parcel information.
3. VA disability rating documentation, including service-connected status.
4. VA TDIU documentation, if applicable.
5. For surviving spouses, a death certificate and evidence of marriage.
6. Any additional records requested by the Assessor's Office.

What Happens if You Move to Another Primary Residence?

Qualified veterans and surviving spouses who move to another primary residence should contact the Assessor's Office about transferring their exemption.

The exemption does not transfer automatically. A completed exemption transfer form must generally be filed with the assessor in the county of the new residence within 60 days after the property becomes the applicant's primary residence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why This Matters to Colorado River Homeowners

For residents of Bullhead City, Fort Mohave, Mohave Valley and surrounding communities, property taxes are an important part of the annual cost of homeownership.

Eliminating or reducing this expense could provide meaningful financial relief to qualifying veterans and surviving spouses, particularly those living on retirement or fixed incomes.

Homeowners considering downsizing, relocation or purchasing another primary residence should understand how their existing or potential exemption may be affected.

If you're considering a lifestyle change, you can also explore 55+ active adult communities along the Colorado River .

A Message to Our Veterans and Their Families

Our Colorado River communities are home to many veterans, military retirees and families who have served our country.

If you believe you qualify for these expanded exemptions, contact the Mohave County Assessor's Office to review your eligibility.

And if you know a surviving spouse who could benefit, please consider sharing this information.

An opportunity to reduce or eliminate property taxes is simply too important to overlook.

Richard Lerma

Colorado River Realtor
Luxe One Realty Professionals

Helping buyers and sellers throughout Bullhead City, Fort Mohave, Mohave Valley and the Colorado River region for more than 35 years.

Call or Text: (928) 577-1815

HomeSalesBullheadLaughlin.com

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Exemption eligibility is determined by the Mohave County Assessor's Office under applicable Arizona law. Requirements, filing procedures and benefits are subject to change. Please contact the Assessor's Office or a qualified tax professional for advice about your circumstances. Information reviewed November 11, 2026.