The New Jersey Division of Taxation is preparing to introduce an online portal for the Farmland Assessment program, aiming to modernize how applications are processed and reviewed. The digital system, which is currently being tested, is expected to be available in 2026 for assessments in the 2027 tax year.
The Farmland Assessment program allows property owners with land actively used for agriculture or horticulture to have those acres assessed at their productivity value, resulting in lower taxes on those portions. Traditionally, farmers apply using paper forms, and local tax assessors determine eligibility.
The new online filing system has been developed in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. By moving applications into a centralized digital platform, staff will be able to audit approved applications more efficiently and focus more resources on physical inspections rather than paperwork.
Officials say that this update will make the process simpler for farmers and landowners while helping ensure that only qualified applicants receive benefits. The goal is also to discourage improper applications and strengthen oversight.
“With the launch of this online portal, the Farmland Assessment program will become more efficient at all stages of the process,” a statement from Treasury said. “This much-needed modernization will support the success of this program and farmers throughout the Garden State for years to come.”
Another official added: “Modernizing the Farmland Assessment application process is a critical step in enhancing this decades-old program, enabling more inspections and strengthening the program’s accessibility and integrity,” they said. “By reducing paperwork and moving to a streamlined, digital system, staff can spend less time on administrative tasks and more time where it matters most, on the ground stewarding New Jersey’s forest resources.”
A further comment highlighted: “This is a big step forward in reducing the paperwork many New Jersey farmers face in their operations,” they stated. “The program will link each farm with all parcels recorded to the owner, reducing the number of forms a producer must file and cutting down on time and paperwork.”
One statement pointed out recent efforts by state leadership: “Governor Murphy and his Administration have worked hard to make the farmland assessment more effective,” it read. “By championing legislation, increasing the sales threshold, and creating this online filing system, the Governor has demonstrated his commitment to accountability and responsiveness.”
For additional information about updates as launch approaches, visit the New Jersey Division of Taxation website.
