Fair Housing
Welcome to PTLA's Fair Housing Unit!
The Fair Housing Unit works to make sure state and federal laws protecting everyone’s right to housing free from illegal discrimination are enforced in the state of Maine.
Heating Assistance News
LIHEAP funding continues to be lower than in previous years. This will mean that more households will be turning to local heating assistance programs after their LIHEAP money runs out. Here is a summary of the programs we know about - followed by information about how to access local programs.
Do You Owe Money to the IRS?
I've just received a "Notice of tax due" letter from the IRS. What is this? The IRS sent you this letter because it believes you have not paid the total amount of taxes that you owe.
Alternatives to Payday Loans
Payday loans can look like a good deal. But they aren’t. Here is what payday loans looks like, why you should avoid them, and some possible alternatives.
I Can't Pay the Taxes on my House: What Can I Do?
In Maine, if you cannot pay your tax bill for the property you live on, there is something you can do. Your city or town can decide that you don't have to pay some or all of it. This is called a "poverty tax abatement."
Maine Tax Refunds for People Living in Motels and Tourist Camps
How do I know if I can get a tax refund?
In Maine, when you stay in some kinds of short term rentals, like a hotel or motel room, you pay a state sales tax. If you stay more than 28 days you may be entitled to a refund of the tax you paid.
First, you must have rented:
Fair Housing: Frequently Asked Questions about Housing Protection for People with Disabilities and Their Families
Important Resources to Prevent Eviction
Getting evicted? Worried you might be soon?
The Maine Homestead Exemption: Tax Relief for Maine Homeowners
Introduction
The Maine Homestead Exemption may lower your property tax bill. It makes it so the town won't count $25,000 of value of your home for property tax purposes. You can qualify if:
Sexual Harassment: Your Fair Housing Rights
Is sexual harassment covered under the Maine Human Rights Act?
The Maine Human Rights Act bans harassment based on:
Fair Housing: Your Right To Rent or Own a Home
What does "Fair Housing" mean?
In Maine we have both state and federal “fair housing” laws. They say that a landlord cannot refuse to rent to you, and a seller cannot treat you differently, because of your:
-race
-color
-national origin
-ancestry (where you or your family came from)...