Department of Revenue offers up to $2,500 in sales-tax relief for storm-damaged homes

The Department of Revenue said it is offering up to $2,500 in sales-tax relief to people whose primary residences were damaged in recent storms, and that affected residents can apply online or by mail.

A Department of Revenue spokesperson said the aid can cover sales taxes on residential appliances, furniture and other items needed to rebuild. "With the natural disaster relief program, we can give $2,500 or up to $2,500 to, people whose primary residences were damaged in the storms," the spokesperson said.

The agency described the application and review process. "We treat those as a high priority when they come in. So, once we receive the application, we usually are in contact with the person who's applied within maybe 72 hours," the spokesperson said, adding that the time to complete a claim depends on whether applicants submit required documentation. The spokesperson said applicants should attach receipts showing the purchases and that uploads are available through the department's website. If all documentation is provided, the department said it can usually process claims "from start to finish, within a couple weeks."

The spokesperson also framed the program as a relief priority for the governor. "These people have already been so been through so much, and it's important to our governor that they have, assistance and help to rebuild," the spokesperson said.

The Department of Revenue said applicants may apply by mail if they prefer, and that department staff are available to help with the application process. The agency did not provide a program deadline, a start date for payments, or detailed eligibility rules in the remarks. Those details and the application form are available on the Department of Revenue's website, the agency said.