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Financing: Frequently Asked Questions

Do any government agencies provide financial assistance for repairs and/or upgrades?

Yes. Communities may provide long-term low cost financing to homeowners for the repair, replacement, or upgrade of failed septic systems by providing Betterment Loans. Contact your local Board of Health for more information.

The Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) offers low-cost financing to those who qualify: (617) 723-0500 or on the web: 
Web site 

The federal Farmers Home Administration (FHA) also offers low-cost financing to those who qualify.

  • Multi-family homes (202) 708-2495
  • Single-family homes (202) 708-3175

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Will financial assistance programs include connecting to a sewer as a type of upgrade?

Yes, many of them will. Check with the specific program to be sure.

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How do I get a tax credit for a septic system repair or replacement?

Any Massachusetts property owner who occupies the property as his or her principal residence is allowed a tax credit for the expenses incurred in the repair or replacement of a failed cesspool or septic system. The maximum amount of the credit that may be claimed in any tax year is $1500. The maximum aggregate amount of the credit that may be claimed is $6000. For more information, contact the Department of Revenue at 617 887-MDOR or on the web.

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Additional Title 5 & Septic System FAQs

Additional FAQ fact sheets are also available for the following topics:

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