Tax relief and valuation review
A homestead exemption, senior-relief program, or valuation protest can change the amount a homeowner owes—but only if the filing reaches the right local office in the correct window. Use the verified county guidance below as your working checklist, then confirm the current form and deadline with Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation — Montgomery County Assessments; Montgomery County Department of Finance, Treasury Division.
Relief programs
The filing guidance for this county is: Homestead application had to be on file with SDAT by May 1, 2026 for the county Income Tax Offset Credit on bills beginning July 1, 2026; the Maryland Homeowners' Property Tax Credit deadline is October 1, 2026. Use the official form or application channel, provide the residence and ownership documentation requested, and keep a copy of the submission.
Open homestead applicationMontgomery County offers a Senior Property Tax Credit equal to 50% of the combined State and County Homeowners' Property Tax Credit when an owner is at least 65; it also offers a separate credit for owners age 65+ who have owned and occupied the home 40 consecutive years or are retired military. The Homeowners' Tax Credit application is required.
Montgomery County's homestead cap is 10% for eligible principal residences; the Town of Kensington uses a 5% cap. Maryland's state portion is capped at 10%, and the cap generally does not apply in the first year after purchase.
Appealing an assessment
Use the valuation notice and the county’s published protest guidance to determine the last day to file. Do not assume the payment deadline controls the appeal.
Gather comparable sales, photographs, repair records, appraisal evidence, property characteristics, and any documentation that explains why the assessed value is incorrect.
Submit through the official channel, save the confirmation, and attend the board or review hearing if one is scheduled. An appraiser or attorney can help evaluate evidence when the value or stakes are substantial.
The verified protest guidance for this county is: Within 45 days of the date on the Maryland SDAT Notice of Assessment; Montgomery County directs assessment appeals to SDAT and states taxes remain due during an appeal. If the language is not a specific calendar date, contact the office promptly for the current notice and board-review schedule.