Tax Relief For Marlborough Seniors: Work Program Open For 2024

MARLBOROUGH, MA — A Marlborough program that allows older residents to receive property tax relief in exchange for volunteer work is now accepting applications.

The city's senior tax work off program, known as SCRPT, generally allows homeowners over age 60 to get a tax break for volunteering in the city — everything from greeting people at City Hall to landscaping. The maximum benefit this year is $1,500.

The volunteer work takes place between April 1 and December 1, and volunteers must complete at least 100 hours.

Seniors will be able to apply for the program until March 22, and the city will accept up to 30 people this year. To be eligible for the program, Marlborough residents have to meet the following criteria:

• Must be over age 60
• Marlborough homeowner for at least five years
• Marlborough property must be primary residence
• Last tax year's income didn't exceed $64,000 for single people, $96,000 for married couples filing jointly

"This program ensures that Marlborough seniors can benefit from much-needed tax relief while utilizing their wealth of knowledge and skill for the city’s benefit," Mayor Christian Dumais said in a news release.

Applications are available on the Marlborough Council on Aging web page, or at the council's office. Applicants will be picked in a lottery to be held March 25. Contact council on aging director Trish Pope at (508) 485-6492 with questions.