NEWS | Local volunteers offer seniors help with receiving $300 state benefit checks

CONTRIBUTED STORY | Age Friendly Programs

Age Friendly Saco and Age Friendly Biddeford are joining forces to help older residents make sure they receive Maine’s upcoming $300 affordability payment by assisting them with filing their Maine ME1040 income tax return.

Many older adults may not realize that if they do not file a Maine income tax return, they may not receive the $300 affordability check from the state of Maine.

**AGE FRIENDLY VOLUNTEERS** Mona Grandbois and Betsy Martin say the Age Friendly Biddeford program and Age Friendly Saco Program have volunteers ready to assist area senior in getting maximum tax benefits. | *Seaver photo*

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To help residents avoid missing out, Age Friendly Saco will host a free tax filing workshop designed specifically for older adults and individuals with simple tax situations.

“Our goal is to make sure older residents receive every benefit they qualify for,” said representatives from the two organizations “For many people, this could mean hundreds of dollars back in their pockets.”

During the workshop, volunteers will assist participants with filing their Maine ME1040 tax return and will also help determine eligibility for the Maine Property Tax Fairness Credit program.

Many residents are surprised to learn they may qualify for this valuable benefit even if they are renters and not homeowners.

In addition, the city of Saco offers a matching credit program that can further increase the amount residents receive. Combined, these programs may provide significant financial assistance to older adults living on fixed incomes.

Residents who would like assistance are encouraged to register in advance. Appointments and workshop details are available by calling Age Friendly Saco at 207-710-5029.

The organizations hope the program will help ensure that no eligible resident misses an opportunity to receive important state and local financial benefits.

For more information or to register for assistance, contact Age Friendly Saco at 207-710-5029.

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