News Release
For Immediate Release
December 20, 2007
Contact:
Aaron Zappia
(215) 657-7700

As Deadline Approaches, Many Have Yet to Apply for Property Tax/Rent Rebate

WILLOW GROVE—With the December 31st deadline approaching for residents to apply for the newly expanded Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue estimates that at least 200,000 qualified Pennsylvanians have yet to apply.   

As the result of a proposal by State Senator Stewart J. Greenleaf (R-12) that was incorporated into this year's Taxpayer Relief Act, Pennsylvania's Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been doubled in size to include over 400,000 new participants and increase benefits by approximately $200 million, the largest expansion in the program's history.   

According to the Department of Revenue, $218 million has been distributed to over 500,000 homeowners and renters in 2007—a $98 million increase over last year.   

"The new expansion has been a great success, but many residents may not be aware of their eligibility.  It is crucial that we get the word out so that everyone who is eligible can take advantage," said Senator Greenleaf.   

As of early November, the Department of Revenue estimated that 3,434 eligible Bucks County residents have not applied.  In Montgomery County, the estimate stands at 6,422 residents.   

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, funded through state lottery funds, awards rebates based on annual income to qualified Pennsylvanians 65 years of age or older, widows or widowers 50 years of age or older, and permanently disabled individuals 18 years of age and older. 

Income Requirements for Homeowners and Renters 

Senior Citizens can exclude 50% of their Social Security and 50% of any railroad retirement income when determining household income for eligibility purposes.   

This year, the deadline to apply for a rebate has been extended to December 31.  Residents who qualified for the 2005 rebate program and received a rebate in 2006 should have already received a booklet in the mail.  Applications may be obtained from Senator Greenleaf's district office by calling (215) 657-7700 or from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue through their website, www.revenue.state.pa.us or calling 1-888-222-9190.