In 2024, Maryland did not issue a statewide stimulus check. However, the state continued to offer various forms of financial assistance and tax relief to eligible residents. These programs aimed to alleviate economic hardships, particularly for low-income individuals and families. Understanding the available resources and how to access them can help Maryland residents navigate financial challenges effectively.
Maryland’s Financial Assistance Programs in 2024
While a direct stimulus check was not distributed in 2024, Maryland provided several programs designed to offer financial relief to its residents
1. Homeowners’ and Renters’ Tax Credit Programs
The Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) continued to administer the Homeowners’ and Renters’ Tax Credit programs. These programs offer financial assistance to eligible homeowners and renters who meet certain income and residency requirements. In fiscal year 2023, these programs saved Marylanders over $58 million. Applications for the 2024 tax credits were available online, with a deadline of October 1, 2024. The Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit Program provides tax relief by setting a limit on the amount of property taxes owed based on income, while the Renters’ Property Tax Credit Program offers relief to renters who pay high rent relative to their income. Eligible renters could receive a direct check payment of up to $1,000 per year.
2. Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
The Maryland Earned Income Tax Credit is a refundable state tax credit designed to benefit low-income working residents. To qualify, individuals must have a valid Social Security number and meet specific income thresholds. For the tax year 2023, the income limits for the Maryland EITC were as follows
- No qualifying children $17,640 (single, head of household, widowed), $24,210 (married filing jointly)
- 1 qualifying child $46,560 (single, head of household, widowed), $53,120 (married filing jointly)
- 2 qualifying children $52,918 (single, head of household, widowed), $59,478 (married filing jointly)
- 3 or more qualifying children $56,838 (single, head of household, widowed), $63,398 (married filing jointly)
Eligible individuals could receive a refundable credit, meaning if the credit amount exceeded their tax liability, they would receive the difference as a refund. This credit aimed to reduce poverty and support working families.
3. Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)
The Maryland Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit provides assistance to families who incur expenses for the care of dependents while they work or look for work. The state credit starts at 32% of the federal credit but is phased out for taxpayers with a federal adjusted gross income (AGI) over $103,650 ($161,100 for married filing jointly). If the state CDCTC exceeded the taxpayer’s liability, a refund could be issued, provided the federal AGI did not exceed certain thresholds.
4. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits
Maryland residents who qualify for federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits continued to receive support in 2024. The maximum federal SSI payment amounts for 2025 were announced as follows
- Eligible individual $967 per month
- Eligible individual with an eligible spouse $1,450 per month
- Essential person $484 per month
These amounts represent a 2.5% increase from the previous year, in line with the cost-of-living adjustment. SSI benefits are designed to assist individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources.
5. Other Local Assistance Programs
In addition to state-level programs, many Maryland counties and municipalities offered supplemental assistance to residents. These local programs varied by jurisdiction and could include additional property tax credits, utility assistance, and emergency financial aid. Residents were encouraged to contact their local government offices to inquire about available resources.
How to Apply for Maryland’s Financial Assistance Programs
Residents interested in applying for any of Maryland’s financial assistance programs were advised to
- Visit the official Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation website to access the online application systems for the Homeowners’ and Renters’ Tax Credit programs.
- File a Maryland state income tax return to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, ensuring all eligibility criteria are met.
- Apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits through the Social Security Administration, providing necessary documentation to establish eligibility.
- Contact local government offices to inquire about additional assistance programs available in their specific county or municipality.
While Maryland did not issue a statewide stimulus check in 2024, the state provided various programs aimed at offering financial relief to eligible residents. By understanding the available resources and the application processes, Marylanders could access the support they needed to navigate economic challenges. It was essential for residents to stay informed about eligibility requirements and deadlines to maximize the benefits of these programs.