From the Town of Great Barrington:
Great Barrington — The town is reminding residents that several local property tax exemption programs are available to assist qualifying taxpayers, including seniors, veterans, surviving spouses, legally blind individuals, and minor children of deceased parents.
These exemptions reduce all or a portion of real estate taxes for eligible households, as allowed under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5. Eligibility generally relates to age, domicile, income, disability status, ownership history, and assets.
Programs available include:
- Clause 17D — Senior (70+), Surviving Spouse, or Minor Child Exemption: Provides a $175 real estate exemption for residents age 70 or older, surviving spouses, or qualifying minor children who meet ownership, residency, and asset requirements.
- Clause 41D — Senior (65+) Exemption: Provides a $1,000 real estate exemption for seniors age 65 or older who meet specific ownership, residency, income, and asset requirements.
- Exemptions for Veterans: Certain veterans, their surviving spouses, or surviving parents may qualify for real estate tax exemptions under a range of veteran-related clauses (Clauses 22–22H) based on disability status, awards, or loss suffered in service.
- Exemption for Legally Blind Residents: Residents who are legally blind may qualify for exemptions under Clause 37 with proof of legal blindness and ownership/occupancy requirements.
Application deadline
Applications for fiscal year 2026 exemptions must be filed on or before April 1, 2026, which is three months after actual tax bills are mailed. State law does not allow late filings to be accepted for any reason.
Residents must submit an application each year and provide documentation to verify eligibility, such as:
- Birth certificate or Massachusetts driver’s license;
- Proof of ownership and residency;
- Income and asset documentation where applicable; or
- Certification of legal blindness (if applying under Clause 37).
One exemption rule
Most applicants may receive only one exemption under M.G.L. Chapter 59 Section 5 per fiscal year, and if multiple qualifications exist, the exemption providing the greatest benefit will apply
Need help applying
Residents who believe they may qualify or who need assistance completing forms are encouraged to contact the
Great Barrington Board of Assessors:
Town Hall, 334 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA
413-528-1619 ext. 2302
assessors@townofgbma.gov
“Our goal is to ensure that residents who qualify for financial assistance are aware of it and can easily access it,” said Town Assessor Emily Schilling. “If you think you may be eligible, please reach out. We are here to help.”
