There are 388 Lisbon residents who may be eligible for the town’s new Property Tax Assistance Program, aimed at helping older individuals reduce their bills.
Established through a recent ordinance, the program is for residents 65 and older who have maintained a homestead in Lisbon for at least five consecutive years and receive the state’s Property Tax Fairness Credit or qualify for the state’s Homestead Exemption, and have no tax liens.
If they fit that criteria, they are eligible to get up to $1,000 off of their property taxes in the next fiscal year, according to a Monday news release.
“This program reflects Lisbon’s commitment to supporting our older residents who have contributed so much to our community,” Town Council Chair Chris Camire said in the news release. “We encourage eligible homeowners to apply and take advantage of this opportunity for tax relief.”
The program comes after residents saw a dramatic increase in their property tax bills for the current fiscal year, stemming from miscalculations in previous budgets.
Residents will likely see another property tax increase for the next fiscal year. Budget discussions are only just beginning so it is unclear exactly how much of an increase residents could expect.
Funding for the program will be calculated by the total need from eligible individuals, Assistant Town Manager Sarah Bennett said. The application deadline is April 1 for credit to be applied to property taxes raised for the next fiscal year budget, 2026-27. Program funding is pending Town Council approval.
The amount of credit applied to an eligible individual is dependent on their homestead, state tax credit, exemption status and the level of funding available in the program, the release said.
“If total program requests exceed available funds, credits will be prorated,” the release states. “Tax credits for qualified applicants will be applied no later than August 31 of the application year.”
For additional information and to apply to the program visit the Town Office or go to lisbonmaine.gov. The Lisbon Library and the MTM Center will also have applications. Reach out to Property Tax Assistance Program Coordinator Tina Taylor for more information at 207-353-3000, ext. 108.