There are only a few weeks left for Concord homeowners to make the November 1 early deadline for the town’s new residential tax exemption. Here’s a quick rundown of how — and why — to apply.
Who should apply?
Everyone who owned and occupied a Concord house or condo as their primary residence as of January 1, 2023 should apply. Commercial and rental properties aren’t eligible. If you own more than one residence, apply for the exemption only on the one you claim as your homestead on your taxes.
How do I apply?
Fill out an application. If you don’t yet have yours or need another, copies are available on the town website, concordma.gov. You can also get a hard copy at the Town Assessor’s office at 24 Court Lane; at the Town House at 22 Monument Street; at The Council on Aging, Harvey Wheeler Community Center, at 1276 Main Street; and at the Main Library and the Fowler Branch at 129 Main Street and 1322 Main Street.
Is that it?
Not quite: You also need a copy of the first page — and just the first page — of your 2022 federal tax return. Cover or black out all your personal information, such as your Social Security number and your income. Just leave legible the title and year of the form (such as Form 1040), your name, and your home address.
What if my property is held in a trust?
In this case, besides your application and tax document, include a copy of the page of the trust document that shows you’re a trustee, a beneficiary, or have a life estate in the property.
What do I do with my completed application?
Mail your completed application and supporting documents to the Assessor’s Office at 24 Court Ln., Concord, MA 01742; drop it off there in person; or email everything to assessing@concordma.gov.
How will I know if I applied successfully?
Successful applicants who file by November 1 will be notified by mail in December.
What if I miss the November 1 deadline?
If you apply by November 1, you could start seeing the effects on your January 2024 tax bill. But if you miss that deadline, you still have until the final deadline of April 1, 2024 to apply and will see the tax effect in a later bill.
What if I miss the April 1, 2024 deadline too?
Don’t! The town will set a new tax rate this fall. If you don’t apply — regardless of the value of your home — you could end up paying more taxes next year than you would under the exemption.
For more information, visit concordma.gov, email assessing@concordma.gov, or call 978-318-3070.
