There are multiple programs available to help reduce property tax burdens for residents, whether you’re a renter or an owner. Browse the list of programs below, and contact the Assessing Department for more information and application assistance.
Maine Property Tax Fairness Credit
Did you pay rent or property tax for your primary residence in Maine in 2024? You may be eligible for the Maine Property Tax Fairness Credit. This is a state income tax credit that must be filed with your annual tax return. Even if you don’t owe Maine income tax, you may still be eligible.
You may be eligible if:
- You were a Maine resident for any part of the tax year
- You owned or rented a home in Maine during any part of the tax year, and you lived in that home during the year as a primary residence
- You paid property tax or rent on your primary residence in Maine during the tax year
- You meet income and property tax or rent limitations during the tax year
- You are not married filing separately
To apply for this credit, you must file Form 1040ME and Schedule PTFC/STFC. These forms are not yet available. Check back soon to access the forms.
Maine Property Tax Deferral Program
The Maine Property Tax Deferral Program is a lifeline loan program that can cover your annual property taxes if you are a senior or are permanently disabled, and are unable to pay your property taxes. This program allows Maine’s seniors to age in place and ensures that property taxes are still paid to the City. This program places a lien on your property, and the loan offered by this program is required to be repaid once the property is sold or becomes part of an estate.
You may be eligible if:
- You are 65 years old or older, or permanently disabled
- You are unable to pay your property taxes on your own
- You have liquid assets of less than $100,000 if you’re a single owner, or combined liquid assets of less than $150,000 if there are multiple owners
- You have a combined income of less than $80,000
- You own and occupy your property as your primary residence and receive a homestead exemption on the property
- There are no municipal liens on your property
To apply for this credit, you must complete and submit the application to the City’s assessor between January 1 and April 1. View more information and the application below, and contact the assessor’s office with questions or for help applying.
Maine Homestead Exemption
The Maine Homestead Exemption program provides a reduction of up to $25,000 in the value of your home for property tax purposes.
You may be eligible if:
- You are a permanent resident of Maine
- The property you are applying for an exemption on is your primary residence
- You have owned your property for at least 12 months prior to applying for the exemption
To apply for this exemption, you must complete and submit the application to the City’s assessor on or before April 1. View more information and the application below, and contact the assessor’s office with questions or for help applying.
Additional Relief Programs
If you are a veteran, have installed renewable energy equipment at your property, or are blind, you may qualify for additional exemptions.
Renewable Energy Investment Exemption
This program exempts renewable energy equipment, such as solar panels, from property tax beginning April 1, 2020. Taxpayers must apply for the credit by April 1 of the first year the exemption is requested.
Veteran Exemption
A veteran who served during a recognized war period and is 62 years or older; or, is receiving 100% disability as a Veteran; or, became 100% disabled while serving, is eligible for $6,000. Applications are due April 1 of the year the exemption is requested.
Paraplegic Veteran Exemption
A veteran who received a federal grant for a specially adapted housing unit may receive $50,000. Applications are due April 1 of the year the exemption is requested.
Blind Exemption
An individual who is determined to be legally blind receives $4,000. Applications are due April 1 of the year the exemption is requested.
