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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Greg Vitali D-Delaware |
  
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Property Tax/Rent Rebate deadline extended to end of year
HARRISBURG, June 13 – State Rep. Greg Vitali, D-Delaware, announced this week that the deadline for the state's Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been extended to Dec. 31, 2008.
"The program deadline is usually June 30, but often gets extended through to the end of the year, giving more people the opportunity to apply," Vitali said. "If individuals are eligible, think they are eligible or know someone who may be eligible, they can contact my office for assistance."
The rebate program benefits Pennsylvanians who meet certain requirements. They must be 65 or older, widows and widowers 50 or older, and people with permanent disabilities 18 or older. The program was expanded in 2006 by increasing the income limit to $35,000 for homeowners; the income limit is $15,000 for renters. The maximum rebate amount was raised for homeowners and renters to $650. Applicants can also exclude one-half of Social Security, Supplemental Security income and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits from their total income when applying.
This year, qualifying homeowners may be eligible for larger rebates. Those whose income is $30,000 or less, and whose property tax bills equal more than 15 percent of their income, will also receive an additional 50 percent of their base rebate.
Property Tax/Rent Rebate forms are available online at www.PaPropertyTaxRelief.com and by calling 1-888-222-9190. Forms are also available at Revenue Department district offices (listed in the blue pages of local telephone directories), local Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers and Vitali's district office.
The program is one of five programs supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery. Since the program's inception, seniors and disabled adults have received $4 billion worth of property tax and rent rebates.
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