Medford Opens Applications For Senior Work-Off Tax Abatement Program

The program is open to Medford residents of a certain age and who own their homes.

By Benjamin Pierce, Patch Staff

Jul 27, 2026 1:36 PM EDT

Completed applications must be returned to the Medford Senior Center next month. (Mike Carraggi/Patch)

MEDFORD, MA — The city is accepting applications for a program that allows eligible seniors to reduce their property tax bills by working temporary assignments for the city, Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn announced.

The Senior Work-Off Abatement Program is open to Medford residents ages 60 and older who own and occupy their homes. Participants can earn a reduction in their real estate taxes by completing temporary work for city departments between Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026, and Feb. 12, 2027.

City officials said there are approximately 20 spots available this year. Preference will be given to seniors who have not participated in the program in previous years, while senior veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. Only one applicant may be selected per household, and some assignments will require specific skills.

The Medford Council on Aging and Office of the Assessor will host a public information meeting at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28, at the Medford Senior Center, 101 Riverside Ave. Staff will explain the program, distribute application packets, and answer questions from prospective applicants.

Completed applications must be returned to the Medford Senior Center by 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11.

Following the application deadline, the city plans to hold a lottery at noon on Aug. 18 to select approximately 20 participants. Department heads and selected applicants are expected to be notified between Aug. 24 and Aug. 31 before work assignments begin Sept. 8.

All work completed through the program must be finished by Feb. 12, 2027.

Residents interested in applying can obtain an application packet by contacting Pam Kelly via email or by calling 781-396-6010.