Massachusetts Begins Disbursing Taxpayer Rebates to Millions

Massachusetts taxpayers will begin receiving rebates today, with approximately 3 million individuals expected to benefit from the program. This initiative, enacted under an older law, follows the state surpassing its revenue cap earlier this year. Payments will be issued through direct deposits or mailed checks, starting today and continuing through December 15.

Those eligible for rebates must have filed their 2021 tax returns. The payments are being distributed on a rolling basis, with around 500,000 payments scheduled for this week and an additional million anticipated in the following week. Taxpayers can identify the deposits in their accounts under the label “MASTTAXRFD.” For those receiving checks, officials will send them directly to the registered mailing address.

The rebate amounts vary based on income, with no maximum limit imposed on the refunds. Individuals earning $35,000 are projected to receive approximately $200, while those with incomes exceeding $1 million could see rebates of $7,000 or more. Taxpayers who have not yet filed their 2021 returns can still qualify for these rebates by submitting their filings by September 15, 2023. If eligible, they can expect to receive their refund approximately one month after filing.

New Waste Disposal Regulations Take Effect

In addition to the rebate program, a new statewide ban on the disposal of mattresses and textiles—including clothing and shoes—takes effect today in Massachusetts. The new regulations aim to promote recycling and responsible waste management practices. Officials have indicated that, while enforcement will be relaxed for individual violations, they will provide resources to help residents comply with the new rules.

The ban also addresses commercial food waste, highlighting the importance of reducing landfill contributions. As part of this initiative, innovative solutions like anaerobic digesters are being explored to manage organic waste more effectively.

Identification Breakthrough in Cold Case

In a significant development, law enforcement has identified the victim of a decades-old cold case. The woman, previously known only as the “Lady of the Dunes,” has been confirmed as Ruth Marie Terry, who was murdered at the age of 37. Her remains were discovered nearly fifty years ago on a beach in Provincetown. While the case remains unsolved, officials hope that this new information will lead to potential breakthroughs in identifying her killer.

As the state prepares for the upcoming election, residents are reminded that the deadline for mail-in ballot submissions is set for 5 p.m. today. For those concerned about timely delivery, Secretary of State Bill Galvin’s office advises voters to drop off their ballots in person.

These developments reflect ongoing changes in Massachusetts that impact both financial and community well-being, making it essential for residents to stay informed and engaged.