Senior/Veteran Property Tax Work-Off Program

Important information regarding

FY27 program: 

Overview

The Senior Property Tax Work-Off Program and the Veterans Property Tax Work-Off Program place older Newburyport residents and veterans in jobs with city departments so that they have the opportunity to abate property taxes each year.  Tax Work-Off participants work in an array of positions requiring a variety of skills.  The program is administered by a team comprised of the directors of several departments and a representative from the Mayor's Office.

Who May Participate?

According to Massachusetts General Law…

For FY27: Participants in the Senior Tax Work-Off Program must be:

• 60 or over
• Eligible total income not over:
  • $75,000 for individuals
  • $94,000 for head of household
  • $112,000 for married couples
• The homeowner of record (must be confirmed in the Assessor's Office at City Hall)
• A resident of Newburyport occupying the property for which Newburyport taxes are paid

Participants in the Veterans Tax Work-Off Program must be:

• A veteran as defined by Massachusetts General Law
• The homeowner of record (must be confirmed in the Assessor's Office at City Hall)
• A resident of Newburyport occupying the property for which Newburyport taxes are paid

How Do I Apply?

• The Tax Work-Off Application Period runs from May through August 1st.
• Applications may be picked up at the Senior/Community Center or at City Hall.  Applications can be downloaded beginning on May 1st on this website.
• COMPLETED APPLICATIONS should be submitted to the COA OFFICE at the SENIOR/COMMUNITY CENTER during designated days/times NO LATER THAN AUGUST 1, 2027.

What Kinds of Jobs Are Available?

Tax Work-Off Program participants complete a wide variety of tasks, ranging from serving as receptionists at City Hall or the Senior/Community Center to assisting at the Recycling Center and much more.  Most Newburyport Departments are asked to consider creating a position for these essential programs.

How Am I Compensated?

Senior participants can earn a credit of up to $2000 in a year and Veteran participants can earn up to $1500.  The abatement, which is credited in February of the following fiscal year, is calculated as follows:

STATE MINIMUM WAGE * NUMBER OF HOURS WORKED (100 in FY25)= TAX CREDIT (up to $2000) ( for seniors- 133 hours)

Every year, the hours worked are reimbursed at the current hourly rate of Massachusetts Minimum Wage.  To receive an abatement, participants must  submit log sheets signed by their department supervisors to the Council on Aging, Senior/Community Center, 331 High St., Newburyport, MA  01950.

How Are Participants Matched with Departments?

Eligible applicants are matched with positions based on their skills and interests and the needs of the departments.  Program administrator(s) and/or the potential department supervisor will meet with applicants to discuss what positions are available and to determine if it is a good match.

Will I Have to Pay Taxes on my Property Tax Abatement?

The abatement is considered to be income for federal (including Social Security and Medicare) but not state tax purposes.  Applicants should consult with their tax advisor to determine if it will affect the Massachusetts Circuit Breaker rebate.

Will the Property Tax Abatement Affect Other Benefits?

The abatement is not considered to be income for benefits such as SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) or LIHEAP (a.k.a. Fuel Assistance).

Can I Participate Even If I Have a Disability?

Absolutely!  Accommodations can be made for participants.

Is There a Way for Me to Qualify Even if I Am Unable to Complete the Tasks Myself?

Yes.  An approved designee may work on behalf of an eligible senior/veteran who is unable to carry out tasks required. Both the applicant and the designee must complete relevant parts of the application and the designee must sign off on a special agreement.

Once approved, how do I track my time?

Tax Work Off Log Sheets must be signed by your supervisor and submitted to the Council on Aging Office no later than July 15th following the June 30th fiscal year deadline, must be maintained. Those serving at the Senior/Community Center may log their time electronically using the check-in kiosk. Please see the COA Director for instructions.