BROOKLINE, DECEMBER 7, 2009 – State Senator Wayne D. Fontana today reminded homeowners and renters that Dec. 31 is the deadline to apply for the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program for seniors and residents with disabilities.
The rebate program benefits Pennsylvanians who are 65 years old and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
“While thousands of seniors have already received rebates this year, there are still roughly 112,000 eligible residents who have yet to apply,” Fontana said. “During these difficult economic times, it is essential that citizens reach out to friends and family who may qualify for one of these valuable rebates.”
According to Fontana, over 120,000 residents have had their property taxes eliminated through the rebate program this year. He added a total of $770 million in property tax relief is available this year for seniors and residents with disabilities.
In 2006, Fontana voted to increase the income limit for eligible homeowners from $15,000 to $35,000 and also raise the maximum rebate for homeowners and renters from $500 to $650.
Fontana said eligible seniors living in Pittsburgh with incomes under $30,000, and those in other parts of the state who pay more than 15 percent of their income on property taxes, are eligible for a supplemental property tax rebate of up to $325, on top of standard rebates.
Fontana added that he and his local district office staff are more than willing to help people determine if they are eligible, or assist seniors in filing their rebate application. For assistance or to obtain an application, contact any of the Senator’s District Offices: 930 Brookline Blvd. in Brookline (412) 344-2551; Kenmawr Plaza, 524 Pine Hollow Rd. in Kennedy Township (412)-331-1208; 1660 Broadway Ave. in Beechview (412)-343-2080.
Forms can also be found online at www.PaPropertyTaxRelief.com or by calling 1-888-222-9190.
Claimants who already applied for Property Tax/Rent Rebates may check the status of their claim online at www.PaPropertyTaxRelief.com or by calling, toll-free, 1-888-PATAXES.