Massachusetts Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit
The Massachusetts Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit is designed to provide financial relief to elderly residents by reducing their state income tax burden. This credit is available to qualifying seniors who meet specific income and age requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 65 years old by the end of the tax year.
- Must have a Massachusetts adjusted gross income (AGI) below the threshold set by the state for the year.
- Must file a Massachusetts state income tax return, even if not required to file federally.
How to Claim the Credit
- File a Massachusetts state income tax return (Form 1, Form 1-NR/PY, or Form 2).
- Include Schedule CB, the Circuit Breaker Credit form, with your return.
- Complete the required sections on Schedule CB to calculate your credit amount.
Important Notes
- The credit is non-refundable, meaning it can only reduce your tax liability to zero.
- Part-year residents may also qualify, but must use specific instructions for line 48 on Form 1-NR/PY.
- For detailed instructions and eligibility criteria, refer to the official Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) resources.
Filing Options
- File for free using Massachusetts’ e-file options at mass.gov/efile.
- Download forms and instructions from mass.gov/dor/forms.
- Use tax software that supports Massachusetts returns and ensure correct PO Box usage (PO Box 7003, Boston, MA 02204-7003).
Source:
Form 1-NR/PY Instructions
2025 Massachusetts Personal Income Tax Forms and Instructions
Form 2 Instructions
Form 1 Instructions
Disclaimer: Always verify information with official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions before filing.