The Maryland RTC-60 form is an application for the Renters’ Tax Credit, designed to assist eligible renters in the state by providing a direct payment of up to $750 annually. This credit is available to individuals who meet specific criteria, such as age or disability status, and who have paid rent during the previous year. To learn more about your eligibility and to apply, please fill out the form by clicking the button below.
The Maryland RTC 60 form serves as an essential tool for eligible renters seeking financial relief through the Renters’ Tax Credit program. This program is designed to assist individuals who meet specific income and residency requirements by providing a direct payment of up to $750 annually. The form is particularly beneficial for two primary groups: renters aged 60 and older or those who are 100% disabled, as well as renters under the age of 60 who have dependents under 18 and do not receive any federal or state housing subsidies. To qualify, applicants must adhere to certain income limits based on their household size and the amount of rent paid. The application process requires detailed information about household income, rental agreements, and residency status. Additionally, applicants must submit supporting documents, such as proof of income and a copy of their lease. Understanding the eligibility criteria and the various charts provided within the RTC 60 form is crucial for applicants to ensure they receive the benefits they are entitled to. It is important to note that the filing deadline for this application is September 1, 2016, emphasizing the need for timely submission to avoid missing out on potential financial assistance.
State of Maryland
Department of Assessments and Taxation
www.dat.maryland.gov
2016 MARYLAND RENTERS’ TAX CREDIT
INSTRUCTIONS AND APPLICATION
FORM RTC-60
· Filing Deadline - September 1, 2016
·
The State of Maryland provides a direct check payment of up to $750 a year for renters who paid rent in the State of Maryland and meet certain eligibility requirements.
•Renters age 60 and over or those 100% disabled as of December 31, 2015, see CHART 1 below.
•Renters under age 60, who have one or more dependents under the age of 18 living in their household and who do not receive Federal or State housing subsidies or reside in public housing, see CHART 1 & 2.
CHART 1 - AGE 60 OR OLDER OR 100% DISABLED.
If you are age 60 or older or 100% disabled, use this chart to see if you should file an application to have the State determine your eligibility.
1.Find your approximate 2015 total gross household income in Column A.
2.If your monthly rent is more than the figure in Column B across from your income, you may be eligible and are encouraged to apply.
(A)
(B)
2015 Total
2015
Gross Income
Monthly Rent
$1 - 5,000
14
$10,000
$117
$15,000
$303
6,000
28
11,000
147
17,000
394
7,000
42
12,000
178
20,000
544
8,000
56
13,000
219
25,000
794
9,000
86
14,000
261
30,000
1,044
EXAMPLE: Mary Jones, age 67, had a $9,964 income in 2015 and she paid $245 per month rent. She also paid all her own utilities. With an income close to $10,000 and rent that is more than $117 per month, Mary Jones should apply for the credit.
CHART 2 - UNDER 60 YEARS OF AGE.
If you are a renter under the age of 60 who, during 2015 had at least one dependent under the age of 18 living with you AND you did not receive Federal or State housing subsidies or reside in public housing, AND the combined income of all residents of your dwelling is below the following guidelines, you are encouraged to apply.
Persons in Household
2015 Gross
(Includes Applicant)
Income Limit
2
$16,317
5
$28,695
8
$40,968
3
$18,850
6
$32,473
9
$49,021
4
$24,230
7
$36,927
Note: If you qualify based upon the income limits above, the State will determine your eligibility using the formula comparing rent and gross income.
EXAMPLE: George and Robin Smith, ages 34 and 33, have two dependents under the age of 18. The total
household income for 2015 was $16,200. In 2015 they paid $500 per month rent and they paid all their own utilities. Since their income is below $24,230 (see Chart 2 on this page), the Smiths should apply for the credit.
•The rent in Chart 1 assumes that you pay all your own utilities separate from the monthly rent. If the rent includes gas, electric or heat, you may need to have as much as an 18% higher monthly rent to qualify for a credit.
•Trailer park residents are advised to submit an application and allow this office to determine eligibility.
•Chart 1 is a guide only, and the exact amount of your income and rent will be used to determine your eligibility. If you submit an application, the State will determine your eligibility.
READ THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION BEFORE COMPLETING THE APPLICATION
1. WHO CAN FILE?
AGE 60 OR OVER OR 100% DISABLED
In order to be eligible for a 2016 Renters’ Tax Credit, the applicant must meet ONE of the following requirements.
•have reached age 60, on or before December 31, 2015 OR
•be 100% totally and permanently disabled as of December 31, 2015 and submit proof of disability from the Social Security Administration, other federal retirement system, the federal Armed Services or the local
City/County Health Officer,
OR
•be the surviving spouse of one who otherwise could have satisfied the age or disability requirement.
UNDER 60 YEARS OF AGE
In order to be eligible for a credit, an applicant must meet ALL of the following requirements:
•had at least one dependent under the
age of 18 living with you during 2015
AND
•did not receive Federal or State housing subsidies in 2015 AND
•your 2015 total gross income was below the limit listed in Chart 2 on the first page of this form.
Applicant must provide a copy of the child’s social security card and birth certificate.
If the applicant files a Federal return, the eligible dependent(s) must be listed on the Federal return in order to apply for this credit.
2.REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL APPLICANTS
Each of the following requirements must be met by every applicant:
•the applicant must have a bona fide leasehold interest in the property and be legally responsible for the rent;
•first time applicants, and prior year applicants who moved in 2015 must submit a copy of their 2015 lease(s), rental agreement, cancelled checks, money order receipts, or other proof of rent paid. Other applicants must submit a copy upon request;
•the dwelling must be the principal residence where the applicant
resided for at least six months in Maryland in calendar year 2015,
•the dwelling may be any type of rented residence or a mobile home pad on which the residence rests, but it may not include any unit rented from a public housing authority or from an exempt organization;
•the applicant, spouse and/or co- tenant must have a combined net
worth of less than $200,000 as of December 31, 2015.
An individual applicant may later be requested to submit additional information to verify what was reported on the application. This request may include a statement of living expenses when it appears that the applicant has reported insufficient means to pay the rent and other living expenses.
3.SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR CERTAIN LINE ITEMS
ITEM 14 - SURVIVING SPOUSE
If you are filing as the surviving spouse of a person who would have met the age requirement, include a copy of his/her death certificate. If your spouse was disabled, include a copy of their death certificate and proof of disability.
ITEM 19 - SOURCES OF INCOME
All nontaxable sources of income such as retirement benefits, also must be reported here.The tax credit is based upon “total income”, regardless of its source or taxability. Public assistance, government grants, gifts in excess of $300, expenses paid on your behalf by others, and all monies received to support yourself must be reported.
You must report room and board, household expenses, or the gross income of any other nondependent occupants. Co-tenants cannot pay room and board.
Applicants who receive Public Assistance must provide a copy of the 2015 AIMS Public Assistance letter showing dependents and benefits received.
ITEM 20 - RENT YOU PAID
List only that amount of rent you actually paid and do not include subsidies paid on your behalf such as HUD/Section 8 payments. Do not include monthly fees for any services such as meals, pet fees, garage charges, late charges, security deposits, etc. If you live in a home in a trailer park, report only the rent you paid for the trailer pad or lot.
ITEM 23- PERJURY OATH/SOCIAL SECURITY RELEASE
By signing the form, the applicant, spouse and/or co-tenant is attesting under the penalties of perjury as to the accuracy of the information reported and that the legal requirements for filing have been met. In addition, the signature also authorizes the listed government agencies, Credit Bureaus and the landlord to release information to the Department in order to verify the income or benefits received and rental terms reported by the applicant.
If you need further information or free assistance in completing this application form, please call 410-767-4433 in the Baltimore metropolitan area or 1-800-944-7403 (toll free) for those living elsewhere in Maryland.
PRIVACY AND STATE DATA SYSTEM SECURITY NOTICE
The principal purpose for which this information is sought is to determine your eligibility for a tax credit. Failure to provide this information will result in a denial of your application. Some of the information requested would be considered a “Personal Record” as defined in State Government Article, § 10-624 consequently, you have the statutory right to inspect your file and to file a written request to correct or amend any information you believe to be inaccurate or incomplete. Additionally, it is unlawful for any officer or employee of the state or any political subdivision to divulge any income particulars set forth in the application or any tax return filed except in accordance with judicial legislative order. However, this information is available to officers of the state, county or municipality in their official capacity and to taxing officials of any other state, or the federal government, as provided by statute.
FILING DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 1, 2016
FORM
2016
RTC-60
Renters’ Tax Credit Application
1.
n Mr.
Last Name
First Name and Middle Initial
2. Your Social Security Number
3.
Your Birth Date
4. Daytime Telephone No.
n Mrs.
n Ms.
(
)
5.
Enter Spouse’s or Co-tenant’s Full Name (Circle Which)
6. His/Her Social Security Number
7. His/Her Birth Date
8.
Present Address (Number and Street, Rural Route)
Apartment No.
City, Town, or Post Office
County
Zip Code
9.
Address in 2015 if Different from Above
10.
Mailing Address if Different from Present Address
State
11.
Did you reside in public housing in 2015?
n Yes
n No
12.
Marital Status n Single
n Married
(n Separated
n Divorced
n Widowed
If so, date ____________________ )
13.
Check one of the following which describes your rented residence:
n Apartment Building Unit
n Single Family House
n Mobile Home Pad
n Other (Specify)
14.
Applicant Status:
n Age 60 or Over
n Totally Disabled (Submit proof)
n Surviving Spouse
n Under Age 60 with Dependent Child
15a.
Enter the name and address of the management company or person to whom you paid rent for at least six months in 2015. List any other landlord on a separate sheet of paper.
Name of Management Company or Landlord.
Address of Management Company or Landlord
15b.
Enter the name and address of the current management company or person to whom you are now paying rent.
16.
Do you rent from a person related to you (including In-Laws)?
n Yes n No
If yes, attach a photocopy of your lease.
Relationship______________________________________________________
16a.
Do you own any real estate in the State of Maryland or elsewhere?
TURN OVER TO OTHER SIDE TO COMPLETE AND SIGN THE APPLICATION
DO NOT WRITE BELOW - OFFICE USE ONLY
s
APPL. #___________________
RTC16
PLEASE COMPLETE OTHER SIDE OF APPLICATION FIRST ·
17. List all household residents who lived with you in 2015. (If none, write NONE.) You must answer this question.
Name
Date of Birth
Social Security Number
Your Dependent?
Yes or No
Relationship
2015 Income
If more space is needed, attach a separate list
18. Did or will you, and/or your spouse, file a Federal Income Tax Return for 2015? n Yes n No
If yes, a copy of your return (and if married
filing separately, a copy of your spouse’s return) with all accompanying schedules must be submitted with this application.
19.
AMOUNTS AND SOURCES OF INCOME IN 2015
(1)
(2)
(3)
OFFICE
PROOF OF ALL INCOME MUST BE ATTACHED
APPLICANT
SPOUSE/
ALL
USE
(ATTACH COPIES - NOT ORIGINALS)
CO-TENANT
OTHERS
ONLY
Wages, Salary, Tips, Bonuses, Commissions, Fees
Interest and Dividends (Includes both taxable and non-taxable)
Capital Gains (Includes non-taxed gains)
Rental Profits (Net) or Business Profits (Net) (Circle which)
Room & Board paid to you by a nondependent resident
Unemployment Insurance; Workers’ Compensation (Circle which)
................................................................................Alimony; Support Money (Circle which)
..........................Public Assistance (Attach AIMS) or other Government Grants (Circle which)
Social Security (Attach copy of 2015 Form SSA-1099) If none,enter “0”
S.S.I. Benefits for 2015 (Attach Proof)
....................................Railroad Retirement (Attach copy of 2015 Verification or Rate letter)
..................................................................................................Veteran’s Benefits per year
Other Pensions, Annuities, and IRAs per year (If a rollover, attach proof)
Gifts over $300; Expenses Paid by Others; Inheritances (Circle which)
........................................................................All Other Monies Received (Indicate Source)
TOTAL INCOME, CALENDAR YEAR 2015
20. Enter the amount of rent
you paid each month in Maryland
from January 1
through December 31, 2015
Total Rent for 2015__________________
Jan. ________________
Feb. _________________ March _________________ April _________________
May ________________ June _________________
July _______________
Aug. _________________ Sept. _________________
Oct. _________________
Nov. ________________ Dec. _________________
21.Do you receive any rent subsidy? n No n Yes, from whom____________________________________________________________________________________
22.Which utilities or services were included in the monthly rent: If none, check None.
Utilities:
n Electric (other than for heat)
n
Services:
n Meals
n Pet Fee
Gas (other than for heat)
n Heat
n None
Housecleaning/Medical
n Parking Garage Fee
n Other
23.I declare under the penalties of perjury, pursuant to Sec. 1-201 of the Maryland Tax-Property Code Ann., that this application (including any accompanying forms and statements) has been examined by me and the information contained herein, to the best of my knowledge and belief, is true, correct and complete, that I have listed all monies received, and that my net worth is less than $200,000. Further, I hereby authorize the Social Security Administration, Comptroller of the Treasury, Internal
Revenue Service, the Income Maintenance Administration, Unemployment Insurance, the State Department of Human Resources, and the Credit Bureaus to release to the Department of Assessments and Taxation any and all information concerning the income or benefits received. I further authorize any landlord listed on this application to provide information about my rental agreement and occupants of the rental unit. I understand that the Department may request at a later date additional information to verify the amount of income reported on the form, and that independent verifications of the information reported may be made.
Applicant’s Signature
Date
Spouse’s or Co-tenant’s Signature
Name of Preparer Other Than Applicant
Telephone
Applications are processed in the order in which they are received if additional information is not required.
RETURN TO
Department of Assessments and Taxation Renters’ Tax Credit Program
301 W. Preston Street 9th Floor, Room 900 Baltimore, Maryland 21201
FOR INFORMATION CALL
Baltimore Metropolitan Area 410-767-4433
All Other Areas
1-800-944-7403
THIS APPLICATION IS NOT OPEN TO PUBLIC INSPECTION - FILING DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 1, 2016
AT8-60R
Completing the Maryland RTC 60 form is essential for eligible renters seeking a tax credit. After filling out the form, applicants will submit it to the Department of Assessments and Taxation for processing. The application must be submitted by the deadline to ensure consideration for the credit.
The Maryland RTC 60 form is an application for the Renters’ Tax Credit, which provides financial assistance to eligible renters in Maryland. The program offers a direct payment of up to $750 annually to those who meet specific income and residency requirements.
Eligibility for the Renters’ Tax Credit varies based on age and disability status. Applicants must fall into one of two categories:
Income limits vary depending on the number of individuals living in the household. For example:
These limits are based on the total gross income for the year 2015.
Applicants must provide various documents, including:
Additionally, proof of income must be submitted, including any relevant tax returns.
The filing deadline for the Maryland RTC 60 form is September 1, 2016. It is crucial to submit the application by this date to be considered for the tax credit.
The amount of the Renters’ Tax Credit is based on the applicant's total gross household income and the amount of rent paid. The state will evaluate the application using specific charts to determine eligibility and the potential credit amount.
Yes, residents of trailer parks are encouraged to submit an application. The state will assess their eligibility based on the same criteria as other applicants.
Providing inaccurate information can lead to denial of the application. The applicant, by signing the form, attests to the accuracy of the information provided. It is essential to ensure all details are correct to avoid complications.
Missing the Filing Deadline: Applicants must submit the RTC 60 form by September 1, 2016. Late submissions will not be considered.
Incorrect Personal Information: Failing to provide accurate names, Social Security numbers, or birth dates can lead to application denial.
Not Including Required Documentation: First-time applicants must attach proof of rent paid, such as leases or canceled checks. Missing documents can result in delays or denials.
Misunderstanding Eligibility Requirements: Applicants under 60 must have at least one dependent under 18 and meet specific income limits. Not meeting all criteria can disqualify an applicant.
Incorrect Income Reporting: All sources of income, including nontaxable income, must be reported accurately. Omitting income can lead to penalties or denial.
Failing to Report Rent Accurately: Only the actual rent paid should be reported, excluding any subsidies or additional fees. Misreporting rent can affect eligibility.
Neglecting to Sign the Application: Both the applicant and spouse or co-tenant must sign the form. A missing signature can render the application invalid.
Ignoring Instructions for Specific Line Items: Each line item has specific instructions. Not following these can lead to confusion and mistakes in the application process.
The Maryland RTC 60 form is an essential document for renters seeking tax credits in the state. However, it is often accompanied by other forms and documents that help establish eligibility and verify information. Below is a list of five key forms that are commonly used alongside the RTC 60 form, each serving a specific purpose in the application process.
Each of these documents plays a vital role in the application process for the Maryland Renters’ Tax Credit. Ensuring that all required forms are submitted accurately can help facilitate a smoother review and approval process. This not only aids in obtaining the tax credit but also supports the financial well-being of eligible renters in Maryland.
The Maryland RTC 60 form, which serves as an application for the Renters' Tax Credit, shares similarities with the federal IRS Form 1040. Both documents require individuals to report their income, which is essential for determining eligibility for tax benefits. While the RTC 60 focuses specifically on renters in Maryland, the IRS Form 1040 encompasses a broader range of tax situations, including income from various sources, deductions, and credits. The need for accurate income reporting is a common thread that connects these two forms, as both aim to ensure that applicants receive appropriate tax relief based on their financial circumstances.
Another document akin to the RTC 60 is the HUD Form 50058, which is used for reporting information on individuals applying for housing assistance under the Housing Choice Voucher Program. Similar to the RTC 60, the HUD Form 50058 requires applicants to disclose their income and family composition. Both forms aim to assess eligibility for financial assistance related to housing, ensuring that resources are allocated to those who meet specific criteria. The emphasis on income verification and family status highlights the importance of accurate reporting in both situations.
The Maryland Homestead Tax Credit Application is another document that parallels the RTC 60. This application allows homeowners to receive a tax credit based on the assessed value of their property. Like the RTC 60, the Homestead Tax Credit Application requires individuals to provide information about their income and residency status. Both forms serve to alleviate financial burdens for residents, whether they are renters or homeowners, by providing tax relief based on specific eligibility requirements.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Application also bears resemblance to the RTC 60. Both documents require applicants to disclose their household income and composition to determine eligibility for benefits. While the RTC 60 focuses on tax credits for renters, SNAP aims to provide food assistance to low-income households. The underlying principle of assessing financial need through income verification connects these two forms, as both are designed to support individuals facing economic challenges.
Additionally, the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) Application shares similarities with the RTC 60. This application is intended for individuals seeking financial assistance for energy costs. Both forms require detailed information about household income and expenses to determine eligibility for assistance. By focusing on the financial circumstances of applicants, both the RTC 60 and MEAP Application aim to provide necessary support to those in need, reinforcing the importance of income assessment in accessing public benefits.
The IRS Form 8862, which is used to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) after a prior disallowance, is another comparable document. Like the RTC 60, Form 8862 requires individuals to provide information about their income and family status. Both forms emphasize the need for accurate reporting to ensure that eligible applicants receive the tax benefits they are entitled to. The requirement to demonstrate eligibility through income verification is a commonality that links these two forms, highlighting the importance of financial transparency in the tax system.
The Maryland Property Tax Exemption Application for Disabled Veterans also mirrors the RTC 60 in its purpose of providing financial relief. This application allows disabled veterans to apply for property tax exemptions, requiring them to disclose their income and disability status. Similar to the RTC 60, the Property Tax Exemption Application seeks to support individuals facing financial challenges due to their circumstances. Both documents emphasize the importance of providing accurate information to determine eligibility for tax benefits.
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is another document that shares common ground with the RTC 60. While primarily focused on education funding, FAFSA requires students to report their income and family size to assess eligibility for financial aid. Both forms underscore the significance of financial disclosure in determining eligibility for benefits, whether for housing or education. The process of verifying income and family status is a crucial aspect of both applications, ensuring that assistance is directed to those who truly need it.
The Maryland Senior Property Tax Credit Application also aligns with the RTC 60, as both forms aim to provide financial relief to specific demographics. The Senior Property Tax Credit Application allows eligible seniors to receive a credit on their property taxes, requiring them to disclose their income and residency status. Both documents are designed to alleviate financial burdens for seniors, highlighting the importance of targeted assistance based on income and age criteria.
Finally, the Maryland Medical Assistance Application reflects similarities with the RTC 60 in its approach to assessing eligibility for public assistance. This application requires individuals to report their income and household composition to qualify for medical benefits. Just as the RTC 60 focuses on providing tax relief to eligible renters, the Medical Assistance Application aims to ensure that low-income individuals have access to necessary healthcare services. The emphasis on income verification and family structure connects these two forms, showcasing the importance of accurate reporting in accessing public benefits.
When filling out the Maryland RTC 60 form, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here are eight important dos and don'ts:
This is not entirely true. While renters aged 60 and older or those who are 100% disabled can apply, renters under 60 may also qualify if they have dependents under 18 and meet specific income requirements.
Many people believe that only certain types of residences, like apartments, qualify for the tax credit. However, the program is open to various rented residences, including single-family homes and mobile home pads, as long as they are not rented from a public housing authority.
While income limits do apply, the program is designed to assist a broader range of renters who may be paying a significant portion of their income in rent. Eligibility is based on a comparison of income and rent, not just on income alone.
Some applicants think they can simply report their rent without considering utilities. However, if utilities are included in the rent, you may need to report a higher monthly rent to qualify for the credit.
It's important to note that applicants must provide proof of income, residency, and rent paid. Failing to submit required documents can lead to a denial of the application.
Many people assume they can file the RTC 60 form at any time. However, the filing deadline is strict. For the 2016 tax credit, applications must be submitted by September 1, 2016.
Key Takeaways for Using the Maryland RTC 60 Form: