| New Web
Tool Allows Pennsylvanians to Check Status of Property Tax/Rent Rebates
Eligible older adults and
residents with disabilities can now check the status of Property Tax/Rent
Rebate applications online at
www.papropertytaxrelief.com
Six
weeks after submitting a Property Tax/Rent Rebate application, the applicant
may visit www.papropertytaxrelief.com
and check the status of the rebate by entering his/her Social Security
number, anticipated rebate amount and birth date. Applicants may use the Web
site to confirm claim status, rebate amount and the date a rebate is
expected to be mailed or direct-deposited. Rebate checks will begin being
distributed to early applicants on July 1.
Through a similar automated phone service, Property Tax/Rent Rebate
applicants can check rebate status by calling, toll-free, 1-888-PATAXES.
The
new online tool to check rebate status has the potential to reduce
administrative costs for the Revenue Department. The online service is
maintained at a minimal cost, while each toll-free phone call from taxpayers
costs the department about 3.1 cents in phone charges, plus costs associated
with staffing.
The
rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and
widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. A
2006 program expansion increased the income limit from $15,000 to $35,000
(which excludes half of Social Security income) for homeowners and raises
the maximum standard rebate for both homeowners and renters from $500 to
$650. The income limit for renters is $15,000.
The
program expansion also provided for supplemental property tax rebates of up
to $325 – on top of the standard rebates – to homeowners in Philadelphia,
Pittsburgh and Scranton and to those in other parts of the state who pay
more than 15 percent of income on property taxes.
Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms (PA-1000) and information are
available online at
www.papropertytaxrelief.com
and by calling
1-888-222-9190. Forms and assistance also are available at Department of
Revenue district offices (listed in the government section of local
telephone directories), local Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers and
state legislators’ offices.
The
deadline to apply for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2008 is
Dec. 31. |
