How to Qualify for a Homestead Rebate in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, certain property owners and renters can use a state program to reduce their tax liability. The Pennsylvania Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program reimburses property owners up to $975 annually, based on 2010 figures. To qualify for the rebate, though, Pennsylvania property owners must follow some important steps and meet certain guidelines.
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Instructions
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Obtain and complete a Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program application. The forms are available online from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue; they are also available from Department of Revenue district offices, local senior centers and state legislators' offices. You also can sign up through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to have this form mailed to you. You cannot qualify for the rebate unless you complete the paperwork.
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File your homestead rebate application by the deadline. The state sets a deadline each year, and you cannot receive the rebate if you do not file your application before the deadline. As long as your application is postmarked no later than the deadline date, the state should accept it.
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Meet basic age qualifications. You must be 65 or older or have a spouse who is 65 or older to qualify for the rebate program. Alternatively, you can be a widow/widower 50 years of age or older or be permanently disabled and at least 18 years of age.
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Meet the income qualifications. The state sets the income guidelines annually; the figure determines the maximum that you can earn to qualify for a rebate, as well as the amount of the rebate. For 2010, Pennsylvania residents had to have an income of no more than $8,000 to qualify for the maximum $650 homeowner and renter rebate. Individuals with an income of no more than $35,000 qualified for lesser rebates.
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Tips & Warnings
Individuals who live in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh or Scranton receive an additional 50 percent property tax rebate.
State and local agencies, including senior centers, offer assistance to seniors who need help completing the rebate application.
Seniors still need to apply for homestead exemptions to claim that separate tax assistance.
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