Pennsylvania seniors can now benefit from the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, thanks to Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro. This program offers up to $1,000 for both renters and property owners in the state.
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Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
This program is funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery and gaming revenues. Initially, the deadline to claim the funds was June 30, but with many applications still pending, Gov. Shapiro extended the deadline to December 31. The maximum rebate amount has increased from $650 last year to $1,000 for 2024.
Deadline Extended
According to Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee at Martin, the extension was granted because many eligible seniors hadn’t applied. The state had projected higher participation levels, and with funds still available, extending the deadline provides more time for eligible residents to apply. However, Beene emphasizes that eligible individuals must submit their applications to receive the rebate.
Qualifies
The rebate is not just for seniors. Those eligible include:
- Seniors aged 65 and older
- Widows and widowers aged 50 and older
- Adults with disabilities
- Individuals with a household income of $45,000 or less annually
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted online at mypath.pa.gov. Required documents include:
- Proof of age
- Proof of disability
- Proof of death (for widows/widowers)
- Proof of income
- Proof of taxes paid
- Proof of rent paid (Rent Certificate PA-1000 RC)
- Legal documents proving property ownership (if applicable)
- DEX-41 (if filing on behalf of a deceased individual)
Application Status
State Revenue Secretary Pat Browne noted that 445,000 applications have been received this year, with nearly 80,000 being first-time filers. About 92% of these applications have been approved, with pending applications requiring additional information or corrections.
Rebate Amounts
The rebate amounts vary based on income:
- $1,000 for those earning $8,000 or less annually
- $770 for those earning between $8,000 and $15,000
- $460 for those earning between $15,000 and $18,000
- $380 for those earning between $18,000 and $45,000
Impact
Kevin Thompson, finance expert and CEO of 9i Capital Group, highlighted the program’s positive impact on low-income individuals. While the rebate offers significant relief, its benefits may be diminished by rising inflationary pressures nationwide.
FAQs
Who can apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program in Pennsylvania?
Seniors aged 65 and older, widows/widowers aged 50 and older, and adults with disabilities with an annual household income of $45,000 or less can apply.
What is the new deadline to apply for the rebate?
The deadline to apply has been extended to December 31.
How much can I receive from the rebate?
The maximum rebate is $1,000, with varying amounts based on income.
Where can I submit my application?
Applications can be submitted online at mypath.pa.gov.
What documents are required to apply?
Applicants need to provide proof of age, disability, death (if applicable), income, taxes paid, rent paid, property ownership.