Tax/Rent Rebate Program For 2011 Underway

Applications for the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, covering 2011 expenses, are now being accepted. Eligible participants can receive a rebate of up to $650 based on their rent or property taxes paid last year. The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians who are 65 years or older, widows and widowers 50 years or older, and those 18 years or older with disabilities.

Eligibility income limits for homeowners are set at the following levels (excluding 50 percent of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits):

• $0 to $8,000, maximum $650 rebate (homeowners and renters).
• $8,001 to $15,000, maximum $500 rebate (homeowners and renters).
• $15,001 to $18,000, maximum $300 rebate (homeowners only).
• $18,001 to $35,000, maximum $250 rebate (homeowners only).

Residents must provide all income, property tax or rental information required to process claims. Applications are due by June 30. Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms are available online through the Pa. Dept. of Revenue, at revenue.state.pa.us.