The following was submitted by Senator Ross’ office:

Senator Richard Ross (R-Wrentham) and Representative Carmine Gentile (D-Sudbury) are pleased to announce that they are hosting an informational seminar on the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit at the Wayland Senior Center (41 Cochituate Road) on Monday, March 6 th at 11:30am. They will be joined by Brian Lynch of the Massachusetts Department ofRevenue. This event is open to all.

“With tax season approaching, the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit can offer a substantial amount of relief and assistance to seniors in need,” said Senator Ross. “Every year we host  these seminars because many of our constituents are unaware of the potential savings available to them. I encourage all of my constituents who are eligible to attend this information session and learn how they can benefit from this essential program.”

“This tax credit brings relief to thousands of eligible seniors each year,” said Rep. Carmine Gentile. “I urge everyone to attend this event to learn how you, a neighbor, or relatives may benefit.”

The Senior Circuit Breaker is a tax credit for senior citizens whose property payments account for more than 10% of their annual income. Eligible seniors will receive a dollar credit on their Massachusetts tax return for every dollar that their total property tax, water, and sewer bills exceed 10% of their income. A maximum of $1070 credit is available. Additionally, if the taxpayer has not claimed the tax credit in the past, (s)he may claim it for the previous three  years.

To be eligible, taxpayers, aged 65 years or older, must own or rent their residence in Massachusetts, and have an annual income of: $57,000 or less for a single filer; $71,000 or less for a head of household; and $86,000 or less for joint filers. If a taxpayer’s property is assessed at $720,000, (s)he is not eligible for the tax credit.