Hardship Abatement

For those struggling to pay their property taxes, there is an established process to request a hardship abatement. 

Maine Law, Title 36 MRSA§841(2) permits the municipal officers "on their own knowledge or on written application therefore (to) make such abatements as they believe reasonable on the real and personal taxes on all persons who, by reason of infirmity or poverty, are in their judgment unable to contribute to the public charges."

It is the policy of the City of Bangor to not force the sale of residential property in order to collect taxes from those otherwise unable to pay where the property owner makes a good faith effort to meet their obligations and meets the criteria for an abatement as outlined below. The applicant for the abatement has the burden of proof to show that they are unable to contribute to the public charge.  

It is also the policy of the City of Bangor to handle all hardship abatement requests in a fair, equitable and confidential manner consistent with Maine Law and to recognize that the majority of our residents, regardless of economic circumstances, find ways to meet their obligations. 

Policy for Processing & Reviewing Hardship Abatements

Hardship Abatement Request Form

This form can also be requested at City Hall. All forms must be submitted either through U.S. postal mail addressed to: Tax Collector, 73 Harlow Street, Bangor, Maine 04401 or via hand delivery to 262 Harlow Street, Bangor, Maine, 04401.