AARP PA Praises Early Distribution of Property Tax/Rent Rebate Payments

Posted on 05/20/20

Tax

HARRISBURG, PA—AARP Pennsylvania applauded plans announced today by Governor Wolf and State Treasurer Torsella that will begin immediately issuing state Property Tax/Rent Rebate payments, providing additional financial assistance to eligible older adults and person with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eligible homeowners and renters will receive rebate payments beginning Wednesday, May 20 instead of waiting for the program’s traditional July 1 distribution. The accelerated payments were authorized by HB 1076, which Governor Wolf signed into law today.

“On behalf of our 1.8 million members and the 50+ population, we thank the Governor, State Treasurer and General Assembly for working together to help thousands of older residents access their financial rebate earlier rather than having to wait until the usual July distribution date,” said AARP Pennsylvania State Director Bill Johnston-Walsh. “Releasing these funds now will go a long way in helping to ease some of the financial burden related to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Johnston-Walsh said the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program dates back to 1971 and receives funding from the Pennsylvania Lottery. Since its inception, older and disabled adults have received more than $6.9 billion in property tax and rent relief.

“Pennsylvania remains the only state in the nation that dedicates its lottery exclusively to programs benefitting older adults,” he said. “Last year alone, our Lottery generated a record $1.14 billion to support many essential services for older Pennsylvanians, including property tax and rent rebates.”

Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, which is managed by the PA Department of Revenue, benefits eligible state residents 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. This year’s application deadline was recently extended to December 31, 2020.

Individuals who have already applied for the rebates this year can check the status of their claim by visiting the Department of Revenue website or by calling call 1-888-PATAXES. Individuals who have yet to file their Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program application can also contact the Department of Revenue for help.

This story is provided by AARP Pennsylvania. Visit the AARP Pennsylvania page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.

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