Property Tax Rebate : Montana homeowners can now access much-needed property tax relief through the state’s latest rebate program.

The Montana Department of Revenue has announced a $685 property tax rebate for eligible residents, continuing the state’s commitment to easing the financial burden on homeowners. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about qualifying for and receiving this rebate.

Understanding the Montana Property Tax Rebate Program

The Montana Property Tax Rebate program is designed to provide financial relief to homeowners who have faced increasing property tax burdens.

This initiative stems from property tax relief legislation signed into law by Governor Greg Gianforte, with the current rebate representing a slight increase from the previous $675 maximum rebate offered in 2024.

The program is part of a broader effort to address rising property taxes in Montana, where many homeowners have experienced significant increases in their tax bills in recent years. According to official statements, these relief measures have saved property taxpayers more than $120 million collectively.

Unlike some tax relief programs that provide credits against future tax bills, this rebate is paid directly to eligible homeowners via paper check. The program exclusively targets primary residences, ensuring relief goes to those who live in their homes rather than investment property owners.

Property Tax Rebate Who Qualifies for the $685 Rebate?

To be eligible for Montana’s $685 property tax rebate, homeowners must meet specific criteria:

Primary Eligibility Requirements

1. Ownership and Residency: You must have owned and lived in your Montana residence for at least seven months during the qualifying tax year (2024 for the 2025 rebate).

2. Payment of Property Taxes: You must have been billed for and paid property taxes on this residence, including any special assessments and other fees.

3. Property Type: Your primary residence must be one of the following:

   • Single-family home

   • Apartment or condominium (owner-occupied)

   • Trailer, manufactured home, or mobile home (including up to one acre of surrounding land)

Important Exclusions

Several situations disqualify homeowners from receiving the rebate:

1. Entity-Owned Properties: Homes owned by business entities such as LLCs or corporations are not eligible for the rebate.

2. Irrevocable Trusts: Properties held in irrevocable trusts do not qualify, though homes in grantor revocable trusts or revocable living trusts may be eligible if all other criteria are met.

3. Rental Properties: If you’re a renter, you cannot claim this rebate, as it’s specifically for homeowners who pay property taxes directly.

4. Second Homes: The rebate applies only to primary residences. Vacation homes and secondary properties do not qualify, even if you pay property taxes on them.

Property Tax Rebate The Application Process: Step by Step

The application process for the Montana Property Tax Rebate is straightforward but time-sensitive. Here’s how to apply:

1. Check the Application Window

The Montana Department of Revenue accepts applications during a specific timeframe:

• For the current $685 rebate, applications are expected to be open from August 15 to October 1, 2025

• This follows the pattern of previous rebates, which had the same application window in 2024

2. Gather Required Documentation

Before applying, collect the following information and documents:

• The geocode of your principal residence (a 17-digit code that identifies your property)

• Records showing the amount of property taxes paid for the qualifying tax year

• Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents

• A current mailing address where your rebate check can be sent

3. Find Your Property Geocode

The geocode is essential for your application. Several methods can help you locate it:

• Use Montana Cadastral (the state’s property information system) for the most direct approach

• Check your property tax bill, which may include the geocode (though sometimes as a 15-digit code)

• Contact your local county office, as some counties maintain websites with this information

4. Submit Your Application

Two application methods are available:

• Online: The fastest and recommended method is through the official Montana Department of Revenue website at getmyrebate.mt.gov

• Paper Form: Paper applications can be downloaded, completed, and mailed, though these take significantly longer to process

Online applications typically take just a few minutes to complete when you have all the necessary information ready.

Property Tax Rebate Tracking Your Rebate Status

After submitting your application, you can monitor its status:

Using the Online Portal

The Montana Department of Revenue offers a “Where’s My Rebate” feature on their TransAction Portal, allowing you to check your rebate status in real-time. This service provides information on:

• Whether your application has been received

• If it’s currently being processed

• The approved rebate amount

• When you can expect to receive your payment

Processing Times

Processing times vary depending on your application method:

• Online Applications: Typically processed within 30 days

• Paper Applications: May take up to 90 days to complete

Once your application is approved, expect to receive your rebate check by mail within approximately 30 days.

Property Tax Rebate Payment Distribution Details

Understanding how payments are distributed helps set appropriate expectations:

Payment Method

All Montana property tax rebates are distributed via paper check – direct deposit is not currently an option for this program. Checks are mailed to the address provided on your application form, making it crucial to ensure your mailing information is accurate and current.

Rebate Amount Calculation

The rebate amount is calculated as:

• Full $685: If your property taxes for the qualifying year exceeded $685

• Actual Amount Paid: If your property taxes were less than $685, you’ll receive a rebate equal to the amount you paid

For example, if you paid $450 in property taxes, your rebate would be $450. If you paid $900, you would receive the maximum $685 rebate.

What to Do If Your Application Is Denied

If your rebate application is denied and you believe you meet the eligibility requirements:

1. Request an Informal Review: You can file for an informal review using Form APLS101F or through the TransAction Portal (TAP).

2. Provide Additional Documentation: Be prepared to submit evidence supporting your eligibility, such as proof of residence, property tax payment records, or ownership documentation.

3. Contact the Montana Department of Revenue: For specific questions about your denial, contact the department directly at (406) 444-6900.

The appeals process gives homeowners an opportunity to correct misunderstandings or provide additional information that may have been missing from their original application.

Property Tax Rebate Special Circumstances and Considerations

Several special situations may affect your rebate eligibility or application process:

Multiple Residences During the Tax Year

If you owned and lived in multiple Montana residences during the qualifying year:

• You can still qualify if you lived in each residence for a combined total of at least 7 months

• Report the geocode for the residence where you lived longest

• Include the total property taxes paid on both residences

Mobile Homes on Owned Land

For mobile home owners who also own the land their home sits on:

• Report the geocode for your dwelling in the application

• Include property taxes paid on both the dwelling and up to one acre of land when calculating your total

Deceased Taxpayers

The personal representative of a deceased taxpayer’s estate may file for the rebate if the deceased would have qualified. This requires:

• Using Form 1310 to claim on behalf of the deceased person

• Providing documentation of your authority to act as their representative

Property Tax Rebate Alternative Property Tax Relief Programs

Besides the $685 rebate, Montana offers several other property tax relief programs that homeowners might qualify for:

Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP)

This program reduces the tax rate on principal residences for Montana residents on fixed incomes. Unlike the rebate, PTAP requires meeting specific income requirements:

• Single applicants: Federal Adjusted Gross Income of $28,329 or less

• Married applicants: Federal Adjusted Gross Income of $37,968 or less

  The application deadline is April 15, 2025.

Disabled Veterans Assistance Program

Veterans with 100% service-related disabilities may qualify for property tax relief if they:

• Own and have lived in their Montana home for at least 7 months

• Can provide verification of their disability status from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

  The application deadline is April 15, 2025.

Land Value Property Tax Assistance Program

This program helps when the value of your land significantly exceeds the value of your home. Eligibility requires:

• The land must have been in your family for at least 30 years

• The property must be 5 acres or smaller

  The application deadline is March 1, 2025.

Property Tax Rebate Protecting Yourself from Fraud

The Montana Department of Revenue has warned taxpayers to be vigilant about potential scams during the rebate application period:

Recognizing Legitimate Communications

Official communications about the property tax rebate will come directly from the Montana Department of Revenue. Be suspicious of:

• Unsolicited phone calls claiming to be from tax authorities

• Emails requesting personal or financial information

• Messages asking for payment to “process” your rebate

Best Practices

To protect yourself from scams:

• Apply early through the official website (getmyrebate.mt.gov)

• Never share personal information with unverified contacts

• Remember that the official application process is free

• Direct all questions to the Montana Department of Revenue’s official channels

Property Tax Rebate Conclusion

The $685 Montana Property Tax Rebate offers significant financial relief for eligible homeowners throughout the state. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and payment timeline, residents can ensure they receive the benefits they’re entitled to.

Remember that the application window is expected to open on August 15, 2025, and close on October 1, 2025. Mark these dates on your calendar and prepare your documentation in advance to ensure a smooth application process.

For the most current information and to apply when the window opens, visit the official Montana Department of Revenue website at getmyrebate.mt.gov. Taking advantage of this rebate opportunity can provide welcome financial relief in the face of rising property taxes and other household expenses.

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