The following was submitted by Senator Ross’ office:

Senator Richard J. Ross (R-Wrentham) and Representative Thomas P. Conroy (D-Wayland) are pleased to announce an informational seminar on the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit will be held at the Council on Aging in Wayland on February 27, 2013 at 1:00PM. They will be joined by Brian Lynch of the Massachusetts Department of Revenue.

“The Senior Circuit Breaker is an excellent program that delivers much-needed relief for Massachusetts residents,” said Senator Ross. “This informational session offers a chance for local seniors to learn how they can take advantage of that savings.”

“Seniors in Wayland have access to many different property tax relief opportunities, courtesy of both the town and state. I encourage seniors who might not be aware of the all the options to attend this learning session and see if you can lower your taxes,” said Representative Conroy.

The Senior Circuit Breaker is a tax credit for senior citizens whose property payments exceed 10% of their annual income. Eligible seniors will receive a dollar credit on their Massachusetts tax return for every dollar that their total property tax, water and sewer bills exceed 10% of their income. A maximum $1000 credit is available. Additionally, if the taxpayer hasn’t claimed the tax credit in the past, (s) he may claim it for the previous three years.

To be eligible, taxpayers, 65 years or older, must own or rent their residence in Massachusetts and have an annual income of: $53,000 or less for a single filer; $67,000 or less for a head of household; and $80,000 or less for joint filers. If a taxpayer’s property is assessed at $705,000 or more, (s) he is not eligible for the tax credit.

In 2011, the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit provided over $67 million in tax credits to more than 85,000 eligible taxpayers.

Please contact the office of Senator Ross with any questions or concerns at (617) 722-1555 or Richard.Ross@masenate.gov.