Financial Assistance Programs
Wakefield Tax Exemption Program
Residents aged 60 and over could qualify for an exemption of $750.00 (less tax) on their real estate tax bills in exchange for 50 hours of service to the Town of Wakefield.
Please return this application with a copy of your current tax bill to the McCarthy Senior Center, 30 Converse Street, Wakefield, MA 01880. The submission deadline is June 15, 2024.
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for the program, residents must:
- be age 60 years and over
- be the assessed owner of the property on which the tax is exempted
- live in the property as a primary residence
- have owned residence for at least 5 years
- have lived in Massachusetts for at least 10 years
Application Guidelines
- Include a copy of your current tax bill
- The application must be submitted to the Senior Center at 30 Converse Street by June 15, 2024.
Service Overview
- Residents will commit to 68 hours of service, as assigned, within a specified time frame
- Assignments will be determined by matching the applicant’s skills, interests, and availability with job requests
- For additional information, contact the Senior Center staff at 781-245-3312
National Council on Aging Resources
From assistance with medication costs to food and home repair benefits, the National Council on Aging has programs nationwide to help seniors live well on a fixed income. Check out their website's Benefits CheckUp program and connect with us to talk through your options.
Elizabeth E. Boit Fund to Assist Local Residents
Mystic Valley Elder Services has established the Elizabeth E. Boit Fund, a program dedicated to helping to meet the pressing needs of older adults living in Wakefield who face an urgent need, meet certain eligibility requirements, and have nowhere else to turn for help. If you require assistance that is essential to your ongoing well-being, call 781-324-7705 to learn more about the Boit Fund for Wakefield residents.
Massachusetts Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit
If you are a Massachusetts resident aged 65 and over, you may be eligible to claim a refundable credit on your personal state income tax return. The Circuit Breaker tax credit is based on the actual real estate taxes paid on the Massachusetts residential property you own or rent and occupy as your principal residence. Learn more about the program on the official Massachusetts Department of Revenue website here.