Local Option Tax Rate and Valuation Freeze with Eligibility Requirements

Rhode Island

2020

No Variation in Receipt of Benefits

Assessment Freeze

The benefit is a freeze of the rate and valuation of the property. Several assessment freezes with varying eligibility requirements have been authorized throughout the state. This benefit is in addition to any other property tax benefit provided by law for which the applicant may qualify.

Credit to the property tax bill

Residential

Residential property is eligible for this program.

Age

Disability

Income Ceiling

Assessment freezes contain varying eligibility requirements that include age, disability, income, tax liability as a percent of income, and an increase in the percent of property taxes over the prior year's property taxes. These eligibility requirements vary by town. Those applying for assessment freezes for 100% disability must be unable to work as of the date of the disability. Some programs only apply to single family dwellings or two family dwellings in which a disabled person resides, depending on the options adopted by the town. Through local option, cities and towns may offer real and personal property tax relief in the form of a valuation freeze to residents based on certain criteria. Depending on the town, assessment freezes are available to: (1) 100% disabled heads of household who are unable to work as of the date of the disability. (2) Elderly residents who are over 65 (3) Those whose property taxes have increased by a certain percentage (4) Those whose property tax obligations are more than a given percent of their household income. Or to some combination of these qualities.

Local government must take action to opt in

Local option regarding program features

Local government covers all of its tax loss

The state statute is silent on this.

RI102_RR20