Montana is offering a $675 property tax rebate in 2024 to provide financial relief for eligible homeowners facing rising costs.
Unlike federal stimulus checks, this state-specific rebate targets those who own and occupy their primary residence, ensuring that the benefits go directly to taxpayers contributing to Montana’s property tax revenue.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to eligibility, application steps, payment timelines, and tips for navigating this rebate program.
Montana $675 Property Tax Rebate
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Montana Property Tax Rebate |
| Maximum Rebate Amount | $675 |
| Eligibility | Montana homeowners occupying a primary residence for ≥7 months in 2023 |
| Exclusions | Business-owned properties, LLCs, renters, trusts |
| Application Period | August 15, 2024 – October 1, 2024 |
| Payment Method | Check (no direct deposit option) |
| Processing Time | 30 days online, up to 90 days by mail |
| Official Website | Montana Department of Revenue |
What Is the Montana $675 Property Tax Rebate?
The $675 rebate is designed to reduce the burden of property taxes for eligible homeowners. It applies only to primary residences and offers either:
- The exact amount of property taxes paid, or
- A maximum of $675—whichever is less.
Example Scenarios:
- If a homeowner paid $500 in property taxes, they will receive a $500 rebate.
- If property taxes exceeded $1,000, the homeowner will receive the maximum $675 rebate.
This program ensures proportional relief while capping the benefit to remain equitable.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the rebate, homeowners must meet the following requirements:
Residency and Ownership
- Must have owned and occupied a primary residence in Montana for at least 7 months during the 2023 tax year.
- Eligible properties include single-family homes, mobile homes, and manufactured homes.
Tax Payments
- Applicants must have paid property taxes on the residence for 2023.
Exclusions
- Properties owned by businesses, LLCs, or irrevocable trusts are not eligible.
- Renters are excluded, as they do not pay property taxes directly.
How to Apply for the $675 Rebate
Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
Before starting the application, ensure you have:
- Proof of residence: Documentation confirming the home is your primary residence (e.g., utility bills, mortgage statements).
- Tax payment proof: Records showing property tax payments for 2023.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Applications could be submitted online or by mail during the application period:
- Online Applications: Complete your application on the Montana Department of Revenue website. Online submissions are processed within 30 days.
- Mail Applications: Submit physical documents to the department’s office. Mailed applications take up to 90 days for processing.
Step 3: Track Your Application
For online applications, use the Department of Revenue’s system to monitor your submission status. Keep records of your submission date for reference.
Payment Details
Rebate payments are sent via checks only—direct deposit is not an option.
Processing Times:
- Online submissions: Receive your check within 30 days.
- Mail submissions: Checks are issued within 90 days.
Example Payments:
| Property Tax Paid | Rebate Received |
|---|---|
| $500 | $500 |
| $1,000 | $675 (maximum) |
Comparisons to Other State Programs
Montana’s rebate program is unique, but other states offer similar property tax relief:
- California: Offers a Homeowners’ Property Tax Exemption, reducing taxable home value by up to $7,000.
- New York: Provides STAR (School Tax Relief) credits to offset school property taxes.
Residents outside Montana should check their state’s Department of Revenue for local property tax relief programs.
Tips for Managing Property Taxes
To ease the financial strain of property taxes, consider these strategies:
- Research Exemptions: Look for state or local tax exemptions for veterans, seniors, or disabled individuals.
- Appeal Tax Assessments: If your home’s assessed value seems too high, you can appeal to reduce your tax rate.
- Budget in Advance: Set aside funds monthly to prepare for annual tax bills.
Important Considerations
1. One Rebate per Household
Only one application per household is allowed. Multiple owners cannot claim separate rebates for the same property.
2. Beware of Scams
Be cautious of fraudulent messages pretending to be from the Montana Department of Revenue. Always verify communication through the official website or by contacting the department directly.
3. Missed Deadline
Applications were only accepted from August 15 to October 1, 2024. If you missed the deadline, stay informed about future rebate programs via the Department of Revenue’s announcements.
Montana’s $675 property tax rebate provides meaningful relief for homeowners, particularly those with low or fixed incomes. While it doesn’t replace federal stimulus checks, the rebate helps offset the rising cost of property taxes, ensuring financial support reaches those who need it most.
For those who missed the application deadline, it’s crucial to stay updated on similar programs in the future by monitoring the Montana Department of Revenue’s website.
