How to get property tax rebate

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How to get property tax rebate

Monday, May 29, 2000

In May, Gov. Ridge signed a state budget bill that included the Homeowners' Century Tax Rebate, a one-time, $100 school property tax rebate for most homeowners. The deadline for applying for the rebate was recently extended until Oct. 20.

The state Revenue Department has announced it will mail applications for the rebate to property owners by June 12.

To be eligible, property owners must be Pennsylvania residents who owned a home in Pennsylvania on July 1, 1999; must have occupied that home as their primary residence from July 1, 1999 through June 30, 2000; and must have paid their school district's property taxes in full.

Rebate applications and instructions will be mailed to property owners based on records supplied by local tax assessors.

The state prepared the questions and answers below to help property owners apply for the rebate:

Q. How do I apply for Homeowners' Century Tax Rebate?

A. Once you've received your application in the mail, the two simplest ways to apply are over the telephone or the Internet. These options are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A phone number and Internet site will be provided on the application. It should take about five minutes to apply.

Q. How do I use the telephone or Internet systems to apply?

When you receive your application in the mail, locate your personal identification number on the mailing. It will be printed below your name and address. Then locate your 1999-2000 school property tax bill or the statement from your mortgage company.

Next, call the toll-free number on the application or log on to the Internet site. Enter your personal identification number and answer the questions. You will be given a confirmation number that is your proof that you applied for your $100 check.

Q. Who must file a paper application?

A. A paper application is required if:

You received an application, but the owner name or names preprinted on the application are incorrect. (You may still submit your application over the Internet if you only need to correct your mailing address.)

You are an executor filing on behalf of a deceased homeowner and you want the check made out in the name of someone other than what appears on the county record. In addition to a copy of the property tax bill, you must attach proof that you are the executor.

You are a widow or widower. You meet the requirements for a Homeowners' Century Tax Rebate and you want the check issued in your name only.

You or your spouse met all the eligibility requirements but no longer reside together.

Paper applications are available by mail by calling 800-362-2050.

Q. I don't own my home yet. I have a mortgage. Do I qualify?

As long as your name is listed on the county assessor's records as of July 1, 1999, you are considered the owner.

Q. When is the due date for the application?

The original deadline was July 7 but it has been extended until Aug. 1.