How to Apply for a Montana Property Tax Rebate?

Montana Property Tax Rebate is available to qualified homeowners who pay a state income tax. A formula determines the rebate amount; only those who filed a 2020 full-year Montana tax return will receive a payment. The tax rebate bill defines other qualifying criteria, including that a person must be a Montana resident. The Montana Legislature and Gov. Greg Gianforte authorized the property tax rebate program this year as a way to spend a budget surplus and calm homeowner anger over reappraisal-driven tax bills. The Department of Revenue will accept online claims through Monday, Oct. 2, and paper claims postmarked by the same date.

Montana Property Tax Rebate Eligibility

Eligible Montana residents can claim up to $675 in property tax rebates based on the real amount of property taxes paid. The rebate application requires a home’s physical address, geocode, and the owner’s and spouse’s names and Social Security numbers. Homes held in LLCs and corporations are neither eligible nor trusts other than grantor revocable trusts. The Montana property tax rebate is not taxable for federal purposes. If the rebate is included in your adjusted gross income, you will need to report it on Form 2. If your rebate is greater than the standard deduction, you may also qualify for a tax credit by filing Schedule C with your return.

How to Claim Montana Property Tax Rebate?

To claim the property tax rebate, homeowners must complete an online application with their Montana Department of Revenue account. If you don’t have an account, you can create one by providing your name, email address, and a password. Once you’re logged in, you’ll be guided through a series of inquiries to determine your eligibility and gather important records. After you’re satisfied that the data is correct, electronically sign and submit the application.

To apply for the Montana property tax rebate, you must have a valid taxpayer ID and social security number. You must also have a copy of your current property tax bill. If you are a trustee of a revocable trust, you must provide the name and address of the trust. Then, you must fill out the Montana property tax rebate form and submit it by October 1.

The Department of Revenue recently announced that all Montana property tax rebates will now be sent via paper check in the mail instead of direct deposit. This move is meant to reduce the risk of fraud by scammers. The department will send these checks within 30 days of receiving the application for a rebate or 90 days after receiving a paper claim.