Partner Updates from the Maryland Department of Aging
March 30, 2026
| Maryland Comptroller Reminds You to Take Advantage of Tax Credits and Deductions |
| This tax season, make sure you claim every dollar you’ve earned when filing your 2025 tax returns. From the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) to the brand-new Senior Deduction, there are important updates to keep in mind when filing your returns this year. The Maryland Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)The EITC provides a refund of up to $4,000 for low- to moderate-income workers, including part-time, seasonal, and state ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) filers. Claiming this credit will not impact your eligibility for other benefits like SNAP or housing assistance.To receive the EITC, you must complete the specific credit section on your Maryland state tax return, even if you claimed the federal version. Before submitting your taxes, double-check your final summary to ensure the credit is applied. Learn more at MarylandComtroller.gov/EarnedIt. New for 2026: The $6,000 Senior DeductionStarting with your 2025 tax returns, Marylanders aged 65 or older can now deduct an additional $6,000 from their taxable income ($12,000 for qualifying married couples). This “senior bonus” is available whether you itemize or take the standard deduction.The full deduction applies to individuals earning under $75,000 (or $150,000 for couples), with a gradual phase-out for higher earners. No special application is needed. Simply check the “65 or older” box on your return to ensure the benefit is applied automatically.For free tax assistance, check with your local library, reach out to the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service at TaxAide.AARPFoundation.org, or visit MarylandComptroller.gov/Taxes. |
| Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council Seeks New Members for Citizens Advisory Workgroup |
| The Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council is recruiting new members for its Citizen Advisory Workgroup. To ensure statewide representation, the Council is specifically seeking providers and individuals with lived experience from the following regions: Southern MarylandWestern MarylandEastern Shore Your perspective is vital to strengthening Maryland’s overdose response. If you are a provider or person with lived experience with substance use and are passionate about representing your community, please complete the interest form by Monday, March 30, 2026. Apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVrKuwQ2pXtz-uOcXCrjxqORnkOe00cDOz4SNhlvY55yT0XQ/viewform About the MORACThe Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council (MORAC) is chaired by Lt. Governor Aruna Miller and includes representatives from 18 state agencies working to reduce overdose morbidity and mortality in Maryland. The advisory council shares data related to the overdose crisis across agencies and provides strategic guidance for increasing access to substance use care and addressing disparities in overdose outcomes. About the Citizen Advisory WorkgroupThe Citizen Advisory Workgroup provides additional recommendations to the MORAC from the perspective of individuals in Maryland who currently or have previously provided and/or utilized substance use disorder services in Maryland. |
| Maryland State Board of Elections Announces Launch of Voter Resource Phone App – Go Vote Maryland! |
| The Maryland State Board of Elections (SBE) has launched a new app, Go Vote Maryland!, your new go-to source for trusted election information. Developed in partnership with researchers from Towson University and the University of Maryland, this free app can help you: Check your voter registration and find your polling place.View the official election calendar and FAQs.Report suspicious misinformation directly to the SBE. Always rely on state and local election officials as your primary source for accurate data. Download Go Vote Maryland! today on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to stay informed and election-ready! Click here to read SBE’s full press release. |