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“Circuit Breaker” tax relief program for middle and low-income Mainers opens Aug. 1
August 3, 2011
AUGUSTA - On Aug. 1 applications for refunds of up to $1,600 will become available for property taxes or rent paid in 2010. The state refund program, called “Circuit Breaker,” provides middle and low-income Maine residents with a partial refund of local property taxes and/or rent paid on their primary residence.
“With fuel and food prices rising, I hope that people will take advantage of this valuable tax relief program,” said Rep. Matt Peterson, D-Rumford.
To qualify, an applicant's 2010 adjusted household income must be $64,950 or less ($86,600 for those with spouse or dependents). In addition, an applicant's 2010 property tax must have been more than 4 percent (or rent more than 20 percent) of their 2010 household income. Low-income seniors do not need to meet this requirement.
Nearly 200,000 Maine households may qualify for a partial refund of local property tax assessed and/or rent they paid in 2010, according to Maine Revenue Services.
The application is available online at Maine Revenue Services. Call Maine Revenue Services at (207) 626-8475 for additional information.
“Many low and middle income Mainers are not aware that they qualify for this program,” said Rep. Sheryl Briggs, D-Mexico. “This program provides much needed tax relief to renters and homeowners and the elderly and Maine families should all apply.”
Contact:
Jodi Quintero [Briggs, Peterson], 287-1488