Governor Janet T. Mills (D) at a Recent Indoor Event in Portland Launches a Program to Help Seniors & Disabled Cover Annual Property Taxes.

The launch of the State Property Tax Deferral Program was announced today by Governor Janet Mills, (D), the first woman Governor of the State. The Program will cover the annual property tax bills of eligible Maine people who are ages 65 and older or are permanently disabled and who cannot afford to pay them on their own.  The Program requires repayment of the loan once the property is sold or becomes part of an estate.

Home owners will qualify so long as the owner earns less than $40,000 a year and has liquid assets below $50,000. (or below $75,000) if applying jointly.  Full eligibility criteria and applications may be obtained via Maine Revenue Services.  Property owners shall submit applications to the municipality where they live.  Municipalties will work directly with Maine Revenue Services, a division of the Department of Administration and Financial Services to process the applications and related payments.

“Older Mainers and those with disabilities deserve to live and age in the comfort of their homes without worrying they’ll lose them because they can’t afford the property taxes,” said Governor Mills.  “This Program through my Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan provides folks with the peace of mind that they can age safely and securely in their homes.  My Administration will continue to work with the Legislature to address property taxes, increase the availability of housing and ensure that all Maine people, regardless of age or income, are able to have a safe, stable place to call home in our state,”