Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program Applications Available

“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.

“Many Maine homeowners and renters are not aware that they qualify,” said Rep. Melissa Walsh Innes, D-Yarmouth. “I encourage all middle and low income Mainers and especially the elderly to apply for this important tax relief program.”

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.

Contact:

Jodi Quintero [Walsh Innes], 287-1488