PA Seniors Do NOT pay for the Property Tax Rebate Program

Seniors should be wary of unsolicited offers that charge a fee for information about Pennsylvania's Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program.

Pennsylvania seniors are NOT required to pay a fee to apply for the program. Forms and instructions are available free of charge and can be easily obtained from the Department of Revenue, Area Agency on Aging offices and the offices of state legislators.

Homeowners across the state have reported recent mailings that ask seniors to complete an information form and return it with a payment in order to receive assistance in filing a property tax or rent rebate claim. The letters do not disclose that seniors can apply for rebates directly with the Commonwealth for free, or that forms and assistance are readily available.

For example, Senior Advisory Center of Harrisburg has been soliciting seniors and charging $39 to complete the form.

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians 65 or older, widows and widowers 50 or older and people with disabilities 18 or older who meet income requirements. The deadline for Pennsylvanians seeking a rebate for property taxes or rent paid in 2009 is Dec. 31, 2010.

People with questions may call the Department of Revenue at 1-888-222-9190 for assistance. Qualifying residents can get free help filling out the forms at the office of their state representative or senator.

Consumers with questions or concerns about suspicious mailings or offers can contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-441-2555.