This Property Tax Stabilization program was popular among Maine seniors aged 65 and above who had owned a permanent residence for at least a decade and were receiving or eligible for a homestead exemption, as it allowed them to freeze their property taxes at the previous year’s level, regardless of their income.
The much-lauded LD 290 “Property Tax Stabilization for Senior Citizens” program, which came into effect in August 2022, has been repealed by the Maine Legislature on July 6, 2023
With the repeal of this Property Tax Stabilization program, the reapplication process and follow-up with the Assessing Department, which was previously required in late August/early September, will no longer be necessary. However, initial applications will still be processed for this year’s upcoming Tax Commitment in August 2023. This means that roughly 1,850 eligible Scarborough aspirants will only be responsible for paying the “frozen” property duty bill quantum for the 2023-2024 billing cycle. The frozen amount will be the same as the tax bill in 2022-2023, unless the new billed amount is lower, in which case the lower of the two amounts will be owed. According to the law, the State will reimburse the Town for 100% of the difference between the actual and frozen taxes.
The State will reimburse the Town for 100% of the difference between the actual and frozen taxes
It is important to note that these are State programs, and while the Town is involved in their administration, it is not responsible for their policy objectives.
Any questions or concerns regarding this Property Tax Stabilization program should be directed to the legislative representative.
With the repeal of the “Property Tax Stabilization for Senior Citizens” program, the State is taking steps to provide alternate support for seniors facing property tax challenges, ensuring they can continue to live in their homes with financial security in this Property Tax Stabilization program.
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