Taxation Aid Committee

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.
View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes

Members

  • Richard Guillette
    Vice Chairman
    Term Expires: 2023
  • Janet Jannell
    Treasurer
    Ex-officio
  • Patricia Stewart
    Board of Assessors
    Ex-officio

Overview

Mission

To provide aid to low-income elderly and disabled residents to defray the costs of their property taxes. Funds utilized consist solely of donations.

Background

On July 13, 2020, Annual Town Meeting voted to approve Article 4, accepting Section 3D of Chapter 60 of the Massachusetts General Laws. Chapter 166 of the Acts of 1998 authorizes cities and towns to establish a fund for the purpose of accepting donations for property tax relief for certain seniors and disabled taxpayers. The statute calls for a five-member committee to be created, charged with establishing rules and guidelines for the distribution of funds, as well as the review of applications and their approval. The five-member board consists of the Chair of the Board of Assessors or designee, the Town Treasurer or designee, and three citizens appointed by the Board of Selectmen.

Description

Contributions are collected through voluntary donations made by Plainville residents and businesses, allowing the Town to establish a fund to defray the real estate taxes of low-income elderly and disabled persons. Awards will be made yearly and applied directly to residents' property tax bills, based upon the applicant's need as evaluated by the five-member committee. All applications are confidential and reviewed within executive sessions. We are hopeful that this program will support the most vulnerable members of our community in the years ahead.

Donations

The Fund is supported solely by donations from generous residents, businesses, community groups, churches, and friends who are able to help those in need. Donations are always needed and are gratefully accepted at any time. To donate to the program, please click here. Convenient donation forms are also provided with each property tax bill. The amount of relief available is dependent on the number of applicants and the amount available in the fund.

Eligibility & Applications

Taxation Aid assistance is available for those who meet the following qualifications:

  • Aged 65 or over as of July 1 OR Disabled as defined by the Veterans or Social Security Administrations
  • Reside and own the property for which aid will be granted.
  • Household Income must be under
    • $29,000 for 1 person
    • $39,000 for 2 people
    • $50,000 for 3 people
    • $60,000 for 4 people

The funds will be disbursed based on need as determined by the Taxation Aid Committee. Since the funds are replenished through voluntary contributions, the amount disbursed will likely vary from year to year. Any taxation aid grant will be deducted from tax bills as available. Tax aid grants must be applied for annually and applications are due on October  16. The Committee may request additional information. Notification of the Committee's decisions will be mailed to all applicants by December 1. All decisions of the Committee are final.

The information in your application for assistance will be kept confidential.

You can obtain an application (PDF) online or at the Assessor's Office or Treasurer's Office in Town Hall, at the Senior Center or from the Veterans Affairs agent (veterans only).