To the editor:
Our state recently got some good news: Minnesotans statewide will pay less in property taxes in 2014 — for the first time in over a decade. This is due largely to $133 million in direct relief for homeowners and renters through the new Homestead Credit Refund and expanded Renter’s Credit that was included in last year’s state budget. According to non-partisan House Research, when including direct relief, statewide property taxes for homeowners are decreasing by $161 million or 4.9 percent.
The important thing to note however is that you need to file to receive your refund or credit. To apply for a property tax refund or Renter’s Credit, you need to complete a M1PR form, which you can find at our local libraries or online at the Department of Revenue website.
You may be eligible if you are a homeowner and have household income of less than $105,500, or you are a renter and have a household income of less than $57,170. Higher income limits apply if you have dependents or if you are a senior citizen or disabled. Your refund will depend on how high your property taxes or rent are relative to your income. The maximum refund for homeowners is $2,580, and the maximum refund for renters is $2,000. If you are a renter you need a Certificate of Rent Paid from your landlord or a Rent Paid Affidavit from the Department of Revenue.
You can mail your form to Minnesota Revenue - M1PR, St. Paul, MN 55145-0020 or file electronically at the Department of Revenue website. Eligible taxpayers can expect to receive their refunds without 60 days of filing. If you have questions, contact the Department of Revenue at (651) 296-3781 or by e-mail at individual.incometax@state.mn.us. You can also reach us at rep.john.ward@house.mn or
rep.joe.radinovich@house.mn.
Sincerely,
Representative John Ward
Representative Joe Radinovich