Current Tax bills and commitment book

Deadline for 2023 Stabilization was December 1, 2022, this program was only available for the 2023 tax year.  See below for replacement programs, the revised programs are administered by the State and subject to change. 

 The LD 290 “Property Tax Stabilization for Senior Citizens” program, enacted in August 2022 was repealed by the Maine Legislature on July 6, 2023, with an effective date of October 11, 2023. The program had allowed Maine seniors 65 and older who owned a permanent residence for at least 10 years and were receiving a homestead exemption, to freeze taxes at the previous year’s level regardless of income.

To help lower-income seniors avoid higher property taxes and remain in their homes, two existing State programs are being expanded:

1. The Property Tax Fairness Credit, which currently allows eligible Mainers to take a $1,500 credit, has increased to $2,000; it also loosens limits on the program in a way that allows the benefits to remain constant for a Mainer whose spouse passes away.  Lastly, the income limit may increase.  Note: This program is not administered by the town; to claim the credit, a resident must file Form 1040ME and Schedule PTFC/STFC for the tax year during which the property tax or rent was paid. For help, call 207-624-9784. For more info, visit: Property Tax Fairness Credit Summary | Maine Revenue Services

2. The State Property Tax Deferral Program, a lifeline loan program that covers the annual property tax bills of Maine seniors age 65 and older who cannot afford to pay them on their own, has been expanded. It doubles the income limit on that program to $80,000 and also raises asset limits. Taxes must be paid back when the home is sold or becomes part of an estate. Note: This program is administered by the State; however, applications must be filed with the Assessor's Office between January 1 and April 1 each year. Applications are forwarded to Maine Revenue Services who review and make the determination for acceptance and approval.  Questions can be referred to Maine Revenue Services, Property Tax Division, at 207-624-5600 or prop.tax@maine.gov.

 For more info, visit: State Property Tax Deferral Program | Maine Revenue Services

Q: What’s happening with the Stabilization law?

A: The Legislature has repealed and replaced it. It will remaining effect for just this one tax year. So, if you applied last year, you’ll get the benefit of the “Freeze” on this year’s bills. Since the program has ended, there is no re-application.

Q: Why did it get repealed/replaced?

A: The State realized that the Stabilization law disproportionately favored the wealthy and the cost of the program would balloon out of control.

Q: What is the new law?

A: It consists of an expanded Senior Property Tax Deferral program and an expanded Property Tax Fairness credit (instead of the freeze on property taxes). People can be enrolled in both.

Q: How does one apply for these other programs?

A: There will be no application at Town offices. Instead, the application process will flow through Maine Revenue Services and is administered by the State.

The main state page for Property Tax Relief Programs is available here: Property Tax Relief Programs | Maine Revenue Services