Filing period to open for tax programs

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NAUGATUCK — The application period for tax programs for elderly homeowners and disabled residents opens Feb. 1.

Applicants must be 65 years old as of Dec. 31, 2016 or be permanently and totally disabled as defined by Social Security to be eligible for the state’s elderly homeowners and disabled residents tax relief program. Applicants’ income can’t exceed $35,200 for a single person or $42,900 for a married couple. Proof of all income for 2016 must be supplied with the application.

The borough will also accept applications for its new optional tax deferral program, which replaces all other “freeze” programs previously offered by the borough, for elderly homeowners and disabled residents.

A resident who is already qualified for a benefit from the state program may also qualify to receive an additional benefit of 50 percent of the state benefit. To qualify, residents must have lived in Naugatuck for at least five years, reside in Naugatuck for 300 days per calendar year, and be up to date on their taxes. Also, their property assessment can’t exceed $200,000, and the benefits can’t exceed 75 percent of taxes due.

Under the borough program, a lien will be placed on the property and payable upon transfer of the property.

The deadline to apply for the programs is May 15. Applications will be accepted at the assessor’s office on Tuesdays and Thursdays only. For more information, call the assessor’s office at 203-720-7016.