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Maine Parentage Act: Who can be a parent?

In 2015 Maine updated its laws about families. This law is called the Maine Parentage Act. It took effect on July 1, 2016. “Parentage” is a legal word. It means the legal relationship between a child and a parent. So, to “establish parentage” means to prove that someone is the legal parent of a child. A child's parents have legal rights and… More
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The Tax Consequences of Divorce or Separation

Divorce or separation can mean big changes on your taxes. Spousal support, also called alimony, and a name change are just a few things you may need to consider. Here are some tax tips to keep in mind if you are recently divorced or separated.
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Do you owe $500 or more to your electric company?

If you're more than $500 in debt on your electric bill, this program may be able to help you. You pay just your current monthly electric bill, each month and on time. For each month that you pay your current bill, your electric utility company will wipe out 1/12 of what you owe them on your back bill. Learn about how to enroll!
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Health Care Tax Tips

Do you get a health care tax subsidy for health insurance you bought through the "federal marketplace." Learn about your duty to report certain financial changes.
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Repaying Federal Student Loans

Federal student loans can be intimidating and confusing. In this article we will explain types of federal student loans, repayment plans and situations, and loan discharge and forgiveness programs.
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Same-sex marriage: How does the Social Security Administration look at my marriage?

Updated information about how the Social Security Administration treats same-sex marriages.
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Setting Priorities for Paying Your Debts When You Can’t Pay All Your Bills

You can't pay all of your bills? How to you decide which ones to pay? The Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project provides this helpful guide.
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What Concerned Adults Can Do to Protect an Endangered Child

You can file a Three-Person Petition (also called a Three-Party Petition) in District Court. Under the Maine Child Protection laws, three or more people can file a Child Protection petition, asking the Court to order DHHS or a third party like a relative to take custody of and provide services to a youth...
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Do You Get Paid By Payroll Card? Know your rights under Maine and federal law

Introduction Many Maine employers are using payroll cards instead of paper checks or direct deposit to pay wages.  This is a growing trend around the country. Payroll cards may be good for some employees, but there are risks and hidden costs involved.  Here’s what you need to know. 
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Military Training Qualifying for a Professional License

Are you a veteran considering applying for a Maine Professional license?  Your military training may help! The Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation will consider military training when reviewing applications.  This means you may not have to complete certain required training programs.