Dear Friends,
I introduced a bill this year in response to a constituent's inquiry on why the income level for the Homeowner's Tax Credit (HOTC) had not been increased for over 11 years. My bill would raise the income level for qualifying for the Homeowner's Tax Credit and tie the increase to increases in the CPI. I do not know yet whether this bill will be successful, however, in doing research for the bill, I realized that only 15% of the citizens who are eligible for this refund take advantage of this refund. There is also a Renter's Tax Credit which is similar to the HOTC. These refunds are reimbursed by the State and involve no cost to our County or Municipalities.
There are links noted below to eligibility qualifications for both Credits. I encourage you to explore whether you may take advantage of them.
Not listed below, here is an additional link from the Prince George's County website which tells you a little more about the HOTC as well as other tax benefits available to you.
Should you have additional questions, or other concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at
Geraldine.Valentino@house.state.md.us
or call 301-858-3101. It is my privilege to represent you and I am happy to try to be of assistance to you in any matter.
Sincerely,
Geraldine
Geraldine Valentino-Smith
Delegate, Maryland House of Delegates, District 23A
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Many Marylanders are missing out on significant tax credits that could save them thousands of dollars each year. Are the constituents in your district aware of the Homeowners' Tax Credit (HOTC) and Renter's Tax Credit (RTC)?
What is the HOTC and who can use it?
The HOTC, also known as the Circuit Breaker credit, sets a limit on how much low-income homeowners owe in property taxes. Homeowners with a household income of less than $60,000/year and whose property is worth $300,000 or less are eligible for the credit. Many homeowners have saved hundreds and even thousands of dollars by taking advantage of this credit. This credit must be applied for ever year.
What is the RTC and who can use it?
The Renters' Tax Credit is similar to the HOTC and is based on the reasoning that renters indirectly pay property taxes as part of their rent and thus should have some protection, as do homeowners. This credit must be applied for every year. The Maryland Renter's Tax Credit program is available to qualified renters in Maryland who meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Renter's total gross household income does not exceed $30,000/year
- Renter's total assets may not exceed $200,000
- Renters must either be:
* Seniors aged 60 years or better
or
* Are 100% disabled
or
* Have a dependent and receive no housing subsidies
The Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition made a simple website to help your constituents quickly check if they are eligible for these credits and find assistance in applying for this yearly credits. Visit MarylandTaxCredit.com, follow the simple prompts, and discover how much money you can save today!
The credits can be taken every year. Applications must be completed by September 1st.
Consumers interested in applying for the Renters Tax Credit can contact the Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition at (443) 961-6220.
By Authority of Friends For Geraldine Valentino-Smith, Elizabeth Ryan, Treasurer
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