The Assessor’s office reminds elderly and totally disabled homeowners that the filing period for the state and local homeowners benefit program opens on Friday, February 1, and will end on Wednesday, May 15. This program will allow a credit on the June real estate tax bill to qualified taxpayers. The income limits are $36,000 for an unmarried homeowner and $43,900 for married homeowners, who must also be residents of this state, be age 65 by last December 31, or totally disabled and live in the home.
New applicants must file an application by May 15. Any current recipient of the benefit who has received a letter from the assessor’s office reminding them to apply this year must also apply no later than May 15, to continue to receive the benefit. Proof of income for 2018 is needed to apply. Please bring all information to the Assessor’s office. Income includes:
• Social Security Benefit Statement (1099 Form for 2018). This must be submitted, if you and/or your spouse receive Social Security benefits.
• Federal Income Tax Return (If you file).
• If you do not file an income tax return, bring statements of 2018 taxable income, including Taxable Pensions, IRA’s, Interest, Dividends, Wages, etc., in addition to the Social Security Statement.
Applications for additional veterans benefits are also being taken, with a deadline of September 30 for that program. The same income guidelines apply.
Assessor’s office hours are Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m. –4:30 p.m. and Friday: 8 a.m. –1 p.m. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Assessor’s office at 860-668-3866.