Few people are taking advantage of a possible tax break that could help them pay their property taxes.

In 2001, Mattapoisett Town Meeting voters adopted the Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief Fund, established by the state to help residents stay in their homes through financial assistance.

The fund gathered dust for a time, but it was revived about three years ago,

"The funds had been collected and sat in the bank for a while," said Brenda Herbeck, the town's treasurer and tax collector. "I thought it should be put to good use."

Still, she said few people have applied for the funds.

To apply, an applicant’s gross income cannot exceed $20,000 if single and $40,000 if married. A person’s total estate, excluding their home, cannot be more than $35,000 if single and $45,000 if married.

There is currently around $5,800 in the fund, and applicants may receive up to $500 off of their property tax bills. A committee will evaluate each application.

In December, the town sent out tax bills along with a brochure explaining the program in the hopes that more people in need will benefit from the funds.

Herbeck also said, "Hopefully we’ll get some more donations so we can serve more people."

All donations are tax deductible.

Applications are available on the town's website, www.mattapoisett.net, and at the Council on Aging, located in Center School.

On the back of the brochure, there was also a form and instructions for making a donation to this fund. Completed applications and/or donations can be mailed: Treasurer’s Office, P.O. Box 433, Mattapoisett, MA 02739.

Applications for help must be received by April 1 to be considered.