Missouri's Circuit Breaker Program is a state tax credit for low-income seniors and certain disabled persons. A credit of up to $750 for renters and $1,100 for homeowners, as of 2014, offsets a portion of the rent or property taxes they pay during the year. To claim the credit, you must attach Form MO-PTS, Property Tax Schedule, to your state tax return. If you're not required to file a state tax return, you can file Form MO-PTC, Property Tax Credit Claim, instead.
Age and Disability Status
To qualify for the tax credit, you must live in your Missouri residence for an entire year while paying either real estate taxes or rent for that year; persons living in tax-exempt buildings don't qualify for the credit. You must also be at least 65 years old, under age 65 and 100 percent disabled, at least 60 years old and receiving Social Security benefits as a surviving spouse, or a 100-percent disabled veteran.
Income Requirements
The final requirement is that your income, including your Social Security, falls under a specific threshold. As of 2014, for renters, the threshold is $27,500 if you're single or married but living separately, and $29,000 if you're married and filed a joint return. The homeowner threshold is $30,000 if you're single or married but living separately, and $34,000 if you're married and filed jointly.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Based on the West Coast, Mary Jane Freeman has been writing professionally since 1994, specializing in the topics of business and law. Freeman's work has appeared in a variety of publications, including LegalZoom, Essence, Reuters and Chicago Sun-Times. Freeman holds a Master of Science in public policy and management and Juris Doctor. Freeman is self-employed and works as a policy analyst and legal consultant.