Montana homeowners are eligible for a property tax rebate of up to $675, thanks to Governor Greg Gianforte’s legislative efforts to provide relief from rising property taxes.
This rebate is part of a broader initiative to help residents cope with the increasing cost of living caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic impacts of the war in Ukraine.
Eligibility Criteria for the Tax Rebate
To qualify for the rebate, homeowners must meet the following conditions:
- Primary Residence Requirement: The property must be your primary residence, meaning you must have owned and lived in the property for at least seven months during 2023.
- Property Tax Payment: You must have paid property taxes on the residence for the tax year 2023.
- Single Rebate Per Household: Only one rebate is allowed per household, even if multiple individuals in the household paid property taxes.
Who is Not Eligible?
- Renters are not eligible for the rebate.
- Properties Owned by Entities such as corporations or irrevocable trusts do not qualify.
- Vacation Homes and Secondary Residences are also excluded.
How to Claim the Tax Rebate
Montana homeowners must apply for the rebate through the Montana Department of Revenue. The fastest way to apply is online through the GetMyRebate.mt.gov portal. The application window is open from August 15, 2024, to October 1, 2024.
Expected Timeline for Rebate Distribution
- Online Applications: If you file online, you can expect to receive your rebate within approximately 30 days of your submission.
- Paper Applications: These take longer, with an expected processing time of up to 90 days. This method is less recommended due to the extended wait time.
- All Rebates via Paper Check: Regardless of your application method, the rebate will be sent as a paper check.
Important Points to Remember
- Geocode Requirement: Homeowners must include the geocode of their property in the application. This is a unique 17-digit code that identifies your property, available on your property tax bill or through the Montana Cadastral website.
- Application Deadline: The application must be submitted no later than October 1, 2024, to qualify for the rebate.
Table of Key Information
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Residence | Owned and lived in the property for at least 7 months in 2023 |
| Tax Payment | Property taxes must have been paid on the residence |
| Rebate Amount | Up to $675, based on the amount of property tax paid |
| Application Period | August 15, 2024 – October 1, 2024 |
| Application Method | Online or paper, with online preferred for faster processing |
| Processing Time (Online) | Approximately 30 days |
| Processing Time (Paper) | Up to 90 days |
| Rebate Payment Method | Paper check |
| Ineligible Properties | Rentals, vacation homes, properties owned by entities |
Conclusion
The $675 property tax rebate is a welcome relief for Montana homeowners facing increasing property tax bills. With a simple online application process and a clear set of eligibility requirements, most homeowners should be able to claim this rebate efficiently. Remember to submit your application by October 1, 2024, and keep an eye on your mailbox for your paper check.
For more information and to apply, visit the Montana Department of Revenue website.
FAQs
1. Can I receive more than $675 if I paid higher property taxes?
No, the rebate is capped at $675. If you paid less than $675 in property taxes, your rebate will be equivalent to the amount paid.
2. How do I find my property’s geocode?
You can find your geocode on your property tax bill or by using the Montana Cadastral website, which provides a step-by-step guide to locate this information.
3. What if I moved during 2023?
You can still qualify if you lived in two different principal residences in Montana during the year, provided you lived in each for a total of at least seven consecutive months.
4. Are trusts eligible for the rebate?
Only grantor revocable trusts that meet other eligibility requirements can claim the rebate.
5. What should I do if I suspect fraudulent activity?
The Montana Department of Revenue advises applying early to avoid scams and contacting them directly for any suspicious activity.
