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.
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."
Foreclosure Rescue Scams: Just Say No!
BEWARE!
If you have fallen behind on your mortgage or you are going through foreclosure, you may hear from someone offering to save your home or fix your credit.
Watch out! This may be a scam!
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:
Motels, Hotels and Rooming Houses
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:
Can I Save My Home from Foreclosure?
Educate yourself. Many, many people are in fear of losing their homes. Maine provides some free help resources, but not everyone will be able to get a free lawyer. Here, we want to help you get started by telling you about some options and where you may be able to get further help.
Home Mortgage Foreclosures
Where can I get help?
If you are facing threat of foreclosure of your home, try to get a lawyer. Here are some possible legal resources:
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Volunteer Lawyer's Project 1-800-442-4293
Pine Tree Legal Assistance
Legal Services for the Elderly 1-800-750-5353
If you are… More
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)...