Good News for Retirees! You Can Get Your Property Taxes Back

Retirees in Turkey are exempt from property taxes and can get back the taxes they paid in the past five years! This is a great opportunity, especially for retirees who own a single home and meet certain requirements.

Who is Exempt from Property Tax?

  • Retirees who own a single residence in Turkey that does not exceed 200 square meters.
  • Homes used only during certain periods of the year are not exempt.
  • Retirees who rent out their single home and rent another home are also eligible.
  • As of 2024, an income tax return is mandatory for retirees whose rental income exceeds 33,000 TL.
  • Property tax is not payable for the first year following retirement. (For example, someone who retires in 2024 will not pay property tax in 2025.)
  • Working retirees are not eligible for this exemption.

How to Get a Tax Refund?
If you meet the criteria above and have paid property taxes in the past, you can get a refund for the taxes you paid within the last five years! To do so:

  1. Apply to the municipality where your home is located.
  2. Submit documentation proving your exemption eligibility.
  3. Following the municipality’s review, any improperly paid taxes will be refunded to you.

Additional Benefits

  • Retirees are also exempt from the environmental cleaning tax.
  • Retirees who rent out their home and then rent to another home can deduct their rent from their taxes using the “actual expense” method. This way, they pay either less tax or no tax at all.

Property tax exemptions and retroactive tax refunds offer significant financial advantages for retirees. The five-year retroactive refund option, in particular, is a valuable opportunity to claim back past payments! Take advantage of these benefits immediately by contacting your municipality.