Thousands Haven’t Filed for Property Tax/Rent Rebate

Residents have until December 31 to apply for up to $650

Thousands of eligible Westmoreland County residents have yet to file for up to $650 in property tax or rent rebates, according to state Senator Bob Regola (R-39). The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with permanent disabilities age 18 and older who meet the Social Security disability requirements. The deadline to apply for a rebate was recently extended to Dec. 31, 2007

The Department of Revenue recently notified Senator Regola that an estimated 8,245^** Westmoreland County residents had not filed for the rebates as of the end of October. The Department reported that 22,395 of the estimated 30,640 Westmoreland County residents eligible for rebates had filed for the money.

“I sincerely hope that everyone who is eligible will take advantage of this important program,” said Senator Regola. “This year, with the cost-of-living -- especially energy bills – rising, it is important that people file for their rebates.”

A new law increased the eligible income limit to $35,000 for homeowners, excluding one-half of Social Security Income and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits, and boosted the maximum rebate from $500 to $650. The expanded household income limits and rebate amounts are:

·         $0 to $8,000 -- $650 rebate

·         $8,001 to $15,000 -- $500 rebate

·         $15,001 to $18,000 -- $300 rebate

·         $18,001 to $35,000 -- $250 rebate

            Applications and information can be obtained through the state Department of Revenue’s website, www.revenue.state.pa.us, or by calling toll-free 1-888-222-9190. Claimants are reminded to provide all the necessary income, property tax or rental information for their claims to be processed accurately and quickly.

To check on the receipt and status of a claim, call the department's automated FACT and Information Line at 1-888-PATAXES (1-888-728-2937). Touch-tone telephone service is required. Callers will need their Social Security Number and the amount of their rebate. People can also call 1-888-222-9190 between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. for help.

###

Contact:           Matt Junker      (724) 600-7002