UPDATE: Massachusetts taxpayers are set to receive tax rebates starting today, with payments potentially exceeding $7,000 for higher earners. Governor Charlie Baker’s administration confirmed that nearly 3 million taxpayers will benefit from this initiative due to an old law that caps state revenue, aimed at returning excess funds to residents.
The automatic payments, which will be disbursed between now and December 15, are being sent on a rolling basis to those who filed their 2021 tax returns. Payment notifications will appear as “MASTTAXRFD” for direct deposit recipients, while checks will be mailed to others. This week alone, officials are dispatching around 500,000 payments, with expectations of approximately 1 million payments each subsequent week.
The amount of the rebate varies significantly based on income. For instance, individuals earning around $35,000 will see a refund of about $200, while those with reported incomes over $1 million could receive upwards of $7,000. It’s crucial for those who haven’t yet filed their 2021 returns to do so by September 15, 2023, to qualify for these rebates.
In addition to financial relief, Massachusetts is enacting a statewide ban on disposing of mattresses and textiles—a move that takes effect today. Officials have indicated that while they will not aggressively fine individuals for violations, they are providing resources to help residents comply with the new rules.
In a significant development, authorities have identified the long-unidentified victim known as the “Lady of the Dunes” as Ruth Marie Terry, a 37-year-old woman from Tennessee. This breakthrough in the nearly 50-year-old mystery may lead to new insights regarding her murder.
As the state gears up for upcoming elections, residents are reminded that the deadline to drop off ballots is 5 p.m. today. Secretary of State Bill Galvin’s office advises voters to submit their ballots in person to ensure timely processing.
These developments are shaping the financial landscape for Massachusetts residents, providing vital relief and prompting essential changes in waste management. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation continues to evolve.
