Rep. John Maher (R-Allegheny/Washington) would like to let residents know that the application forms for Property Tax and Rent Rebates are now available.

Maher clarified, “Rebates claimed this year are for property taxes or rent paid in 2009.  Since no one actually pays any property taxes to Pennsylvania, this state program’s formal ‘rebate’ name can be confusing.”

The program offers state relief for property taxes paid locally by homeowners to school districts and county and local governments. Renters can qualify as well on the theory that their rent includes payment of the underlying property taxes. 

The program targets Pennsylvanians who are 65 or older, widows and widowers 50 or older, and adults with disabilities.  The rebate of up to $650 is based upon total income, excluding 50 percent of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and certain Railroad Retirement benefits, as follows:

• $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)

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is one of many initiatives supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery, which dedicates its proceeds to support programs for older Pennsylvanians. Since the program began in 1971, more than $4 billion has been paid to qualified applicants.

Applications for this year’s rebate must be submitted to the state by June 30, 2010.

Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms are available by contacting Maher’s office at (412) 831-8080, or by visiting his Web site at RepMaher.com.

Rep. John Maher
40th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(412) 831-8080
(717) 783-1522

(412) 760-4040

www.RepMaher.com