Brewster Reminds Seniors of Dec. 31 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Deadline

December 11, 2012

McKeesport, December 11, 2012 — State Sen. Jim Brewster is reminding constituents that the filing deadline for the 2011 Property Tax and Rent Rebate is Dec. 31.

“In these difficult economic times when every penny counts, it’s important that seniors and other qualified people take full advantage of this Lottery-funded program, “Brewster said. “If you have not filed yet, please check and see if you are eligible for benefits.”

[frame align=”right”][/frame]Brewster said the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program provides financial assistance for homeowners and renters who are 65 years or older, widows or widowers over the age of 50, and permanently disabled persons over the age of 18.

The program’s income eligibility limit for qualifying homeowners is $35,000. The rebate ranges from $250 to $650 depending on the individual’s gross income. Some homeowners may receive larger rebates than requested, based on income and/or property taxes, because they may qualify for a supplemental property tax rebate up to $975. Qualifying renters must have an income under $15,000 and their rebate ranges from $500 to $650.

Brewster said he and his local staff stand ready to help seniors obtain applications and apply for their rebate.

“Since the Lottery’s inception in 1972, proceeds have provided over $27.6 billion in benefits for senior citizen programs,” Brewster said. “I will continue to support efforts to protect the viability of the Lottery, as well as the programs it funds.”

###

Brewster Reminds Seniors to Apply for Property Tax/Rent Rebate Benefits

June 2, 2011

McKeesport, June 2, 2011 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today said the application deadline for the state Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been extended to December 31.

“I hope seniors will use this additional time to check their eligibility and apply for benefits,” Brewster said. “People should realize that eligibility and rebate amounts were expanded a few years ago.

“My staff and I stand ready to help seniors obtain applications and apply.”

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. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.

The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for qualifying homeowners can boost rebates to $975.

Brewster said over 500,000 people have already applied for benefits this year. He said the Department of Revenue will begin sending out benefit checks in July.

Applicants can also obtain Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms (PA-1000) and related information online at www.revenue.state.pa.us or by calling, toll-free, 1-888-222-9190.

The program is funded through Lottery and gaming proceeds.

# # #