The City of Norwalk reminds the public that applications for the tax relief program for elderly or disabled homeowners can now be submitted. Homeowners over 65 or disabled homeowners less than 65 years old can apply between now and May 15 for the program which is designed to help homeowners reduce their property tax bill.

 “Many seniors or people who are disabled are living on fixed incomes. It is critically important we do what we can to help them stay in their homes,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry W. Rilling. “Thanks to our staff and the support of the Common Council, our program offers higher income limits and provides greater benefits than many other programs. This is a great program and I encourage those who qualify to please send in their applications or reach out to us with any questions.”

 In 2019, 1,101 applications were approved. The result was tax relief credits totaling more than $1.86 million. Those who applied for the program in 2018 need to reapply, and those who were placed on a mailing list for this year, will be receiving applications in the mail from the Tax Assessor’s office. Exemption renewals were mailed January 30.

 Tax relief credits are either $900 or $1,500, depending on the qualifying total amount of taxable and non-taxable income for 2019. Norwalk tax relief credits are available for those with a maximum income of $69,000, for both single and married applicants. Conversely, the State of Connecticut has a maximum income limit of $37,000 for single, and $45,100 for married applicants, with credits ranging from $150 to $1,250. Residents may receive tax relief from both programs.

 To qualify for the program, the applicant or their spouse must have reached age 65 no later than December 31, 2019. Persons under 65 who are disabled and receiving permanent and total disability benefits may also be eligible. Also, for the City program, the applicant must have been a Norwalk resident and taxpayer for at least five years and must be current with all taxes.

 For more information on Norwalk Tax Credit programs, please visit norwalkct.org/taxcredits or call the Norwalk Tax Assessor’s office at (203) 854-7816.