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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.
“Our commitment to property tax relief is unwavering, and this new
Web tool enhances customer service for the older adults and people
with disabilities who rely on these annual checks,” Governor Edward
G. Rendell said, introducing the new tool in late April.
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.
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