As we get ready to head into the end of summer I want remind people about an important tax rebate program. The Maine “Circuit Breaker” program offers refunds of up to $1,600 for local property taxes and/or rent paid on their primary residence. The program opened for the 2011 tax year on Aug. 1.

The “Circuit Breaker” program is an important tool for Maine’s middle class families hit hard by property taxes. Democrats in Augusta are working hard to make sure we put more money in the pockets of working people who are struggling to pay for the rising price of food, gas, and other critical needs.

To qualify, your 2011 adjusted household income must be $64,950 or less ($86,600 for those with spouse or dependents). In addition, your 2011 property tax must have been more than 4 percent (or rent more than 20 percent) of their 2011 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 2011, according to Maine Revenue Services.

The application is available online at http://www.maine.gov/revenue/forms/tnr/tnr.htm. Call Maine Revenue Services at 626-8475 for additional information.

Thank you,

Rep. Mike Shaw

Standish


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