"This is one of the best programs available to help homeowners recoup some of their money that is paid for rent or property taxes," Senator Davis said. "I encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible for the rebate to apply."

To be eligible for the general program, homeowners and renters must have been a resident of Maine for all of 2001, maintained a homestead in Maine for all of 2001 and lived in that homestead at least six months during 2001. Qualified applicants must also have a 2001 property tax bill that was more than 4% of total household income or aid rent in 2001 that was more than 22% of total household income.

Elderly residents do not need to meet this financial requirement if their income is below $14,400 when living with a spouse or dependent or $11,600 for those living alone. Individuals looking to qualify under the elder portion must have been 62 or older in 2001, or 55 or older if disabled. Otherwise, the new income guidelines are $29,100 for a non-elderly single person living alone and $45,100 for a person living with a spouse or a dependent. The maximum amount of refund an individual could expect is $1000.

Applications are due no later than December 31, 2002.

Applications can be obtained by calling Maine Revenue Services at 207-624-7894 or by contacting Senator Davis in Augusta at 207-287-1505. Applications are also available at your local town or city office, Area Agency on Aging, or the Community Action Project Office.