A variety of exemptions are available to reduce property tax obligations for certain qualifying taxpayers: elderly persons, blind persons, disabled veterans, surviving spouse or orphaned minor child, widow or orphaned minor of police officer or fire fighter, and extreme hardship.
The qualifying date is July 1, the first day of the fiscal year. If an actual tax bill is sent to taxpayers, applications are due within 3 months after the actual (Fall) bill postmark date. If an estimated bill is sent, then applications are due within 3 months of the Spring bill postmark.
Because of the number and complexity of exemptions, a list of qualifications is posted on this site. This list is intended only to give you a general idea of what is available. If you have the slightest suspicion you may be eligible or have any questions, call the Assessors’ Office to discuss details! Certain exemption applications will require a copy of the tax forms filed in the last calendar year, or a statement indicating that the applicant(s) does not file tax forms. The number of owners of the property also falls into the review of qualification, which may mean non-eligibility of the exemption, a pro-rated exemption, or a full exemption.
An additional qualification for most exemptions is the ownership and occupancy of the property. In most cases, the applicant must have owned and occupied the real estate property in Massachusetts for five years (and owned and occupied the present property on July 1 in the year of the application) and Massachusetts must have been the applicant’s place of domicile for the preceding ten years.
The Tax Deferral Program:
Many retired homeowners feel “house-rich and income-poor”. Property taxes constitute a serious financial burden which can even force the sale of the home. Fairhaven offers a Tax Deferral Program which enables owners to defer payment of up to 100% of annual property taxes. Deferred taxes accumulate, with simple interest at 8%, as a lien on the property until it is sold or the owner(s) has deceased. Applicants must be 65 on July 1, with a maximum income of $40,000. If you are interest, please contact the Assessors’ Office.
ATTENTION: OWNERS OF PROPERTY IN TRUST
Trust ownership arrangements may affect qualification for statutory exemption. As a general rule, an applicant must be a trustee and a beneficiary and submit:
1. A copy of a recorded trust instrument, including amendments
2. A copy of the schedule of beneficiaries.
Consult your attorney if these requirements affect you.
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