How to apply for Homeowners' Property Tax Credit — Maryland

Who it's for

Maryland's Homeowners' Property Tax Credit caps the property tax owed based on income — if taxes exceed a percentage of household income, the state pays the difference. Combined gross household income must be $60,000 or less and net worth under $200,000 (not counting the home and retirement accounts). One application also triggers any county supplemental credit automatically. Apply to SDAT by October 1 each year.

What you'll need

• SDAT HTC application (also covers county supplements)
• Income documentation for all residents
• Property tax bill

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Homeowners' Property Tax Credit — Maryland. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need sDAT HTC application (also covers county supplements), income documentation for all residents, property tax bill — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your documents before you start: your SDAT Homeowners' Property Tax Credit (HTC) application, income documentation for all residents in the home, and your property tax bill.
2. Confirm you meet the basic eligibility requirements: combined gross household income of $60,000 or less and net worth under $200,000, not counting your home and retirement accounts.
3. Choose how you want to apply — online through SDAT's official application portal or by phone at 1-410-767-4433.
4. Complete the HTC application fully and accurately. This single application also covers any county supplemental credits automatically, so no separate form is needed for those.
5. Submit your completed application and all required income documentation to SDAT by October 1 of the current year — applications received after this deadline will not be considered for that year.
6. After submitting, keep copies of everything you sent in case SDAT needs follow-up information.

What to expect: After submitting, SDAT will review your application and calculate your credit using a sliding income formula. If your property taxes exceed a set percentage of your household income, the state pays the difference. Any qualifying county supplemental credit is determined automatically from the same application — you do not need to apply separately. Processing times vary, so contact SDAT at 1-410-767-4433 for an estimate on your specific case. Because this credit must be renewed every year, plan to reapply before October 1 each year to keep your benefit active.

Renewals

annual