STEELTON, PA — On Wednesday, Governor Josh Shapiro and Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne visited the Hoy/Latsha Senior Center in Dauphin County to announce the distribution of property tax and rent rebates for 2023. Starting Monday, July 1, over 442,000 older homeowners, renters, and people with disabilities across Pennsylvania will receive rebates totaling $266 million. This marks a significant increase from last year’s total of nearly $132 million distributed to 283,468 homeowners.
Major Expansion of the PTRR Program
Governor Shapiro highlighted the importance of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) program, calling it a lifeline for seniors and people with disabilities. “We passed the largest targeted tax cut for our seniors in nearly two decades to expand this program to help put money back in their pockets,” he said.
Last year, Shapiro signed into law a historic expansion of the PTRR program. The expansion includes raising the maximum standard rebate to $1,000 and increasing the income cap for eligibility to $45,000 for both homeowners and renters. Additionally, the income cap will now grow with inflation each year, ensuring more Pennsylvanians qualify and benefit.
Distribution Details
Applicants who provided bank account information will receive their rebates through direct deposit starting July 1. For those who requested paper checks, payments will be mailed. Following this initial wave, rebates will continue to be distributed as claims are received and processed. The deadline for applying for rebates on 2023 rent and property taxes has been extended to December 31, 2024.
The Department of Revenue announced that 93% of PTRR applications have already been processed and approved. Remaining claims, which may contain errors or require additional information, are being addressed. Pennsylvanians who receive outreach from the Department of Revenue are encouraged to respond promptly to ensure timely approval and payment.
Local Impact
In Dauphin County alone, 9,000 residents will benefit from the rebates. During the announcement, Governor Shapiro was joined by local leaders including Representative David Madsen, Dauphin County Commissioner George Hartwick, Housing Authority Executive Director Leah Eppinger, and Elizabeth Bryant, head of the Hoy Towers resident advisory board.
Bolstering Financial Support for Vulnerable Communities
The expanded PTRR program represents the first significant update since 2006. It underscores a commitment to easing financial burdens for vulnerable populations amid rising costs. By increasing the rebate amounts and raising the income caps, the program ensures broader access and more substantial support.
This initiative not only provides immediate financial relief but also reflects a policy shift aimed at adapting to economic changes. As housing costs and living expenses rise, such measures are critical to maintaining the financial stability of seniors and people with disabilities.
Governor Shapiro’s announcement of the expanded Property Tax/Rent Rebate program marks a significant step in supporting Pennsylvania’s seniors and disabled residents. By providing increased financial aid and extending eligibility, the state aims to offer much-needed relief and enhance the quality of life for its most vulnerable citizens.
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