This bill authorizes the town of Wakefield to create a property tax exemption specifically for senior citizens who meet certain income and residency requirements. To qualify, applicants must be at least 65 years old, have lived in the town for at least 10 years, and have income levels that would make them eligible for the state's circuit breaker tax credit. The exemption amount is set annually based on the previous year's circuit breaker credit, and the town's assessors review applications to ensure applicants do not have excessive assets. The program is designed to run for a maximum of three years before expiring.
Substituted by the House, on motion of Mr. Walsh of Peabody, for a bill with the same title (House, No. 4526) [Local Approval Received]. April 30, 2026.
HD 5630 would allow the town of Reading to create a property tax exemption for seniors meeting specific income, age, and residency requirements. It directly affects seniors aged 65+ (or 60+ with a 65+ partner) who own and live in their Reading home for 10+ years, have income qualifying for the state's circuit breaker tax credit, and limited assets. The exemption amount would be set annually by Reading's select board at 100-150% of the qualifying circuit breaker credit, applied only to the primary residence. Applicants must reapply yearly with income and asset documentation, and the exemption expires after three years. The town would fund this through proportional adjustments to the residential tax levy.
Senate, January 8, 2026 -- The committee on Senate Ways and Means, to whom was referred the Senate Bill relative to senior property tax deferral (Senate, No. 2713),- reports, recommending that the same ought to pass with an amendment substituting a new draft with the same title (Senate, No. 2901).
By Representative Armini of Marblehead and Senator Crighton, a joint petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 4225) of Jennifer Balinsky Armini and Brendan P. Crighton (by vote of the town) that the town of Marblehead be authorized to establish a means-tested senior citizen property tax exemption in said town. Revenue. [Local Approval Received.]
By Representative Wells of Milton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 4094) of Richard G. Wells, Jr. (by vote of the town) relative to the establishment of a means-tested senior property tax exemption in the town of Milton. Revenue. [Local Approval Received.]
By Representative Frost of Auburn, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 4585) of Paul K. Frost and Michael O. Moore (by vote of the town) that the town of Auburn be authorized to offer expanded senior property tax abatements in said town. Revenue. [Local Approval Received.]
By Representative Lipper-Garabedian of Melrose, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3979) of Kate Lipper-Garabedian (with the approval of the mayor and city council) that the city of Melrose be authorized to establish a means tested senior citizen property tax exemption in said city. Revenue. [Local Approval Received.]
By Representative Galvin of Canton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3099) of William C. Galvin relative to the establishment of a municipal option means tested senior citizen property tax exemption. Revenue.
By Mr. Brownsberger, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1933) of William N. Brownsberger for legislation to prevent property tax bill shocks. Revenue.
