KITCHEN: APPLY FOR PROPERTY TAX/RENT REBATE

            PHILADELPHIA, September 25 - State Sen. Shirley Kitchen today reminded eligible senior citizens that the Dec. 31 deadline to apply for the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is quickly approaching.

            “More than half of those in Philadelphia who are eligible have not yet applied for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program,” Kitchen said. “I encourage older Philadelphians to take advantage of this truly beneficial program.”

            The eligibility and the benefit amounts were expanded thanks to Act 1 of 2006, which taps revenue from Pennsylvania’s slots casinos. Rebates will now range from $250 to $650 depending on income levels. 

            Even though only five Pennsylvania casinos (of the eventual 14) have opened and generated revenue so far, the first rebate checks to senior citizens were already issued this summer.

             Eventually, a portion of the more than $1 billion that the state will receive annually from slots gambling will also provide significant wage tax cuts for Philadelphians.

            Seniors who earn $35,000 a year or less and who own a home are eligible for a rebate. Applicants can exclude half of their income earned from Social Security, Supplemental Security Income and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits.

            Applicants must be a Pennsylvania resident homeowner age 65 or older, or be a widow or widower 50 years of age or older, or must be permanently disabled or medically unable to work. 

            Renters who meet the age requirements and who make less than $15,000 per year can also get a rebate.