CIRCUIT BREAKER PROGRAM

The circuit breaker program (formally known as the Elderly and Totally Disabled Tax Relief Program) entitles elderly and disabled people to a property tax reduction or a rent rebate, depending on whether they are homeowners or renters. An applicant must meet certain qualifications:

1. They or their spouse must have been age 65 or older or deemed disabled by Social Security by December 31st of the previous year, or be at least 50 and a surviving spouse of someone who at the time of death was eligible for the program.

2. They must occupy the property as his or her home and must have lived in Connecticut for at least one year prior to applying.

3. Their annual income for the program is $36,500 for a married couple or $29,800 for a single person the income guidelines are subject to change with inflation rates. There is no asset limit although interest earned off the accounts count as income.

Any eligible individual who would like to apply must supply proof of all the previous year's income including an income tax return if they file. Enfield residents can call Enfield Neighborhood Services at (860) 253-6396 to get more information or to make an appointment.

Last Modified: 1/28/2008 2:20:07 PM