Maryland Renters’ Tax Credit

The Renters’ Tax Credit Program provides property tax credits for renters who meet certain requirements. The plan was modeled after and designed to be similar in principle to the Homeowners’ Tax Credit Program. The concept rests on the reasoning that renters indirectly pay property taxes as part of their rent and thus should have some protection, as do homeowners.

The plan is based upon the relationship between rent and income. If the portion of rent attributable to the assumed property taxes exceeds a fixed amount in relation to income, the renter can, under specified conditions, receive a credit of as much as $1,000. The credit is paid as a direct check from the State of Maryland.

PROGRAM BENEFIT

This program issues a direct credit in the form of a check.

ELIGIBILITY & LIMITATIONS

• You may be eligible to apply if you are over 60, permanently disabled, have dependents under 18 years old, or meet low-income requirements.
• Your total assets may not exceed $200,000.
• You must live in this dwelling as your principal residence.
• The rented dwelling may be an apartment in an individual house or any type of apartment building, duplex, co-op, condominium, house trailer, or mobile home pad.
• The applicant must have a bona fide leasehold interest in the property and be legally responsible for the rent.
• If the dwelling that is rented is owned by a tax exempt, charitable organization or is exempt in any way from property taxation, a tax credit cannot be granted.
• The rental credit must be renewed every year via application by September 1st.
• The rental credit is calculated according to the relationship between the rent and income.

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES & RESOURCES

Online Application

PROGRAM CONTACT

Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation
(410) 767-5915
Email
Website