Don't Overlook Homeowner/Renter Tax Credit

With tax season in full swing, AARP Montana wants to remind older Montanans about the Elderly Homeowner/Renter Tax Credit.

For Montanans who are 62 or older, the Elderly Homeowner/Renter Tax Credit can bring up to $1,150. Like the Earned Income Tax Credit, it’s refundable, so even those who owe no tax at all could receive the credit.

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“It’s extremely important to make sure that any tax credits or refunds are not overlooked,” said Tim Summers, AARP Montana State Director.  “To someone on a fixed income, every dollar counts.”

Elderly Montana homeowners or renters (age 62 or older) may qualify for this credit even if they do not have to file an income tax return.

You are eligible for this credit if, during the year for which you are claiming the credit, you:

• Are 62 years of age or older as of December 31 (of the tax year for which you are filing);
• Lived in Montana for at least nine months;
• Rented, owned, or leased a home in Montana for at least six months, and
• Have a total household income less than $45,000

Claiming the credit is easy as part of your paper or electronic Montana income tax return. If you don’t file a return at all, you can claim the credit online at MTRevenue.gov. That’s the fastest and most secure way of claiming the credit, but if you prefer to file on paper, you need to fill out just a portion of Form 2, the main state income tax form. It’s also available at MTRevenue.gov or by calling (406) 444-6900.

Trained and IRS-certified AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers are also prepared to help answer questions about the Montana Elderly Homeowner/Renter Tax Credit.

“We know most older Montanans want to stay in their homes as they age, but the cost of upkeep can be a strain on limited incomes. That includes property taxes. This tax credit was designed to help offset ever-increasing property taxes for older homeowners. We encourage eligible Montanans to make sure they’re receiving this important tax credit,” said Summers.

Home prices have skyrocketed in recent years in Montana, and these rising values often result in higher bills. While property taxes vary greatly by location, Montana’s average yearly property tax increase is 5% which is drastically higher than the national yearly property tax increase average of roughly 3.2%, according to the Frontier Institute. According to the Gardner Report of real estate trends, home prices in Montana keep climbing year after year.

Meanwhile, seniors on a fixed income aren't able to keep pace with these increases.

Quick Glance Q & A about the Montana Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit

What is the Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit?

The Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit is a Montana income tax credit up to $1,150 for seniors who rent or own a home in Montana, even if they don’t make any income. It is an income tax credit for property taxes paid. The credit is for property taxes billed and paid directly or property taxes paid indirectly through rent.

How do I qualify?

You are eligible for this credit if you:

• Are 62 or older on December 31 (of the tax year for which you are filing),
• Lived in Montana for at least 9 months,
• Live in the same home for at least six months, and
• Have a household income under $45,000.

Do I need to make any income to qualify?