For immediate release:
August 18, 2021​


SDAT Conducts Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, Encourages Marylanders to Apply Online

More than 125,000 Postcards Mailed Encouraging Low-income Homeowners and Renters to Apply for
Property Tax Credits

BALTIMORE, MD - The Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) today
announced the implementation of its 2021 Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, urging Marylanders to
consider whether they may be eligible to receive a homeowners’ or renters’ property tax credit. The
quickest and easiest way to find out more information and submit an application is by accessing the
innovative online tax credit application system, which strengthens SDAT’s ability to continue processing
all tax credit applications in an accurate and timely manner. The deadline to file for both tax credits is
October 1, 2021.

“SDAT is pleased to offer these tax relief programs to assist Marylanders who pay high property taxes or
rent relative to their income,” said SDAT Director Michael Higgs. “Determining eligibility and filing online
have never been faster or easier thanks to our online tax credit application system, and I encourage all
Marylanders to learn more about these programs by visiting our website.”

Last week SDAT mailed 119,228 postcards to low-income Maryland homeowners who may be eligible to
receive a credit but have not yet submitted an application. 
The Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit
Program provides relief for eligible homeowners by setting a limit on the amount of property taxes owed
based on their income. If a resident has already paid their property taxes and applies before October 1,
any tax credit that the homeowner may be eligible for will be refunded by their county finance office. To
access and submit the 2021 Homeowners’ Tax Credit application online, click here. If a paper application
is preferred, click here to download, but please be advised that applications submitted by mail will take
longer to process than applications submitted online.

As part of the 2021 Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, SDAT also mailed 6,124 postcards to
known renters who have not already applied for the tax credit, as well as non-subsidized rental
companies to inform their tenants. The Renters’ Property Tax Credit Program provides tax relief for
eligible renters who pay high monthly rent relative to their total income and do not receive federal or state
housing subsidies or reside in public housing. The credit is issued in the form of a direct check payment
of up to $1,000 per year. To access and submit the 2021 Renters’ Tax Credit application online,
click here. If a paper application is preferred, click here to download, but please be advised that
applications submitted by mail will take longer to process than applications submitted online.
To determine whether you are eligible to receive a tax credit, you may visit the links above or call 410-
767-4433 or 1-800-944-7403 (toll-free within Maryland).

In 2020, over 42,300 homeowners received an average of $1,422 in tax relief, and 7,500 renters received
an average of $445.64 in tax relief. Combined, these two tax credit programs saved Marylanders more
than $63 million last year. Many counties and municipalities also provide supplemental homeowners
credits as defined by Tax Property Article §9-215, which provide additional tax relief. If a resident is
approved to receive the state credit, they will automatically receive any local supplemental credit for
which they are eligible.​