BALTIMORE, Md. – The Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) announced the implementation of its 2021 Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, urging Marylanders to consider whether they may be eligible to receive a homeowners’ or renters’ property tax credit. The quickest and easiest way to find out more information and submit an application is by accessing the innovative online tax credit application system, which strengthens SDAT’s ability to continue processing all tax credit applications in an accurate and timely manner. The deadline to file for both tax credits is October 1, 2021.
“SDAT is pleased to offer these tax relief programs to assist Marylanders who pay high property taxes or rent relative to their income,” said SDAT Director Michael Higgs. “Determining eligibility and filing online have never been faster or easier thanks to our online tax credit application system, and I encourage all Marylanders to learn more about these programs by visiting our website.”
Last week SDAT mailed 119,228 postcards to low-income Maryland homeowners who may be eligible to receive a credit but have not yet submitted an application. The Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit Program provides relief for eligible homeowners by setting a limit on the amount of property taxes owed based on their income. If a resident has already paid their property taxes and applies before October 1, any tax credit that the homeowner may be eligible for will be refunded by their county finance office. To access and submit the 2021 Homeowners’ Tax Credit application online, click here. If a paper application is preferred, click here to download, but please be advised that applications submitted by mail will take longer to process than applications submitted online.
As part of the 2021 Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, SDAT also mailed 6,124 postcards to known renters who have not already applied for the tax credit, as well as non-subsidized rental companies to inform their tenants. The Renters’ Property Tax Credit Program provides tax relief for eligible renters who pay high monthly rent relative to their total income and do not receive federal or state housing subsidies or reside in public housing. The credit is issued in the form of a direct check payment of up to $1,000 per year. To access and submit the 2021 Renters’ Tax Credit application online, click here. If a paper application is preferred, click here to download, but please be advised that applications submitted by mail will take longer to process than applications submitted online.
To determine whether you are eligible to receive a tax credit, you may visit the links above or call 410-767-4433 or 1-800-944-7403 (toll-free within Maryland).
In 2020, over 42,300 homeowners received an average of $1,422 in tax relief, and 7,500 renters received an average of $445.64 in tax relief. Combined, these two tax credit programs saved Marylanders more than $63 million last year. Many counties and municipalities also provide supplemental homeowners credits as defined by Tax Property Article §9-215, which provide additional tax relief. If a resident is approved to receive the state credit, they will automatically receive any local supplemental credit for which they are eligible.