The deadline to apply for the Maine Property Tax Relief Program is April 1.

Some Mainers may qualify for property tax relief programs, but they need to act quickly. Maine’s property tax relief program, called the Homestead Exemption, can provide up to $25,000 in tax relief to eligible homeowners. The last date to apply for relief is April 1.

Maine Property Tax Relief Program: Who Eligible?

Maine established the Homestead Exemption Program in 1998 to provide relief to homeowners. To qualify for Maine property tax relief, you must be a homeowner and have lived in the property for at least 12 months before April 1.

The exemption applies to residential properties assessed as real estate. For example, mobile homes on rental properties may be exempt. The exemption is limited to your primary residence only. Properties, including camps, vacation homes, and second residences, are not eligible for the Maine Property Tax Relief Program.

To qualify for the homestead exemption for the upcoming tax year, eligible applicants must submit an application to the Assessor’s Office by April 1. Applications are available in most municipalities, and applicants can download them from the Homestead Exemption page.

If the home has more than one owner, only one co-owner needs to sign. Forms submitted after April 1 will be considered for the next tax assessment year.

Homeowners approved for an exemption do not need to apply each year. Once approved, the exemption remains in effect unless ownership and residency status change.

If your application is denied, the local evaluator will send you a notice explaining the reasons for the denial. Applicants may appeal a denial by writing a letter to the local assessment review board or county commissioner.

Other exemptions possible

For applicants who qualify for another exemption, such as a veteran or blind exemption, the Maine Homestead exemption will be added to that exemption.

The veterans exemption is available to veterans who served during a recognized war and are 62 years of age or older. Or, as a veteran, you get 100% disability. or became 100% disabled while serving.

Under the veterans exemption, eligible applicants may receive $6,000. Applicants must submit their application along with supporting documentation to the City Assessor. The last date to apply for a waiver is April 1.

People living in ungoverned areas may submit an application to the state tax assessor at Maine Revenue Services, Property Tax Division, PO Box 9106, Augusta, ME 04332-9106.

Separately, the state Legislature in 2022 approved an expansion of a benefit for veterans called the Property Tax Fairness Credit. This benefit depends on the property taxes paid but is administered through personal income taxes. For more information, visit the Property Tax Fairness Credit webpage.