Northern Tier News

Applications for the 2023 Property Tax/Rent Rebate program are now open, and Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) is reminding area residents that free assistance is available through his office. The program has been expanded this year to include even more senior citizens and people with disabilities. The new state law increased income eligibility limits to $45,000 for both homeowners and renters, excluding 50% of Social Security income. The maximum rebate has also been increased from $650 to $1,000.

"At a time when many are struggling to meet the rising cost of inflation, this is a great opportunity for people on fixed incomes to get some help with their rent or property taxes," Causer said. "My office is happy to help make that happen at no charge."

To make it easier for residents to access assistance, Causer has scheduled a series of Property Tax/Rent Rebate clinics across the area. These clinics will provide guidance and support for individuals applying for the rebate program. The schedule for the clinics is as follows:

- Kane Senior Center, 100 N. Fraley St., Kane: Tuesday, Feb. 13, 1-3 p.m.

- Emporium Senior Center, 105 E. Fourth St., Emporium: Tuesday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m. to noon. Appointments preferred. Call 814-486-3707.

- Eldred Senior Center, 169 Main St., Eldred: Wednesday, Feb. 21, 9-11 a.m.

- Galeton Public Library, 5 Park Lane, Galeton: Wednesday, Feb. 21, 1-3 p.m.

- Smethport Senior Center, 119 W. Main St., Smethport: Monday, Feb. 26, 9-11 a.m.

- Austin Borough Office, 21 Turner St., Austin: Tuesday, Feb. 27, 10 a.m. to noon.

- Ulysses Senior Center, 522 Main St., Ulysses: Wednesday, Feb. 28, 9-11 a.m.

- Port Allegany Senior Center, 216 N. Main St., Port Allegany: Wednesday, Feb. 28, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

- Bradford Senior Center, 60 Campus Drive, Bradford: Monday, March 4, 9-11 a.m.

- Mt. Jewett Senior Center, 8 E. Main St., Mt. Jewett: Tuesday, March 5, 1-3 p.m.

- Oswayo Valley Senior Center, 128 Lyons St., Shinglehouse: Wednesday, March 6, 9-11 a.m.

- Coudersport Senior Center, 165 Route 6 West, Coudersport: Wednesday, March 13, 9-11 a.m.

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is open to eligible residents who are 65 years and older, widows and widowers who are 50 years and older, and people with disabilities who are 18 years and older.

To ensure a smooth application process, individuals attending the clinics or seeking assistance at Causer's office are reminded to bring the necessary documentation. Renters will need a 2023 PA Rent Certificate completed by their landlord or a statement from the HUD office. They will also need proof of income for 2023, such as Social Security/Disability Form 1099, employment W-2, Pension/Retirement Form 1099, and Interest/Dividends Form 1099. A driver's license or photo identification is also required. Additional documents, such as a death certificate, life lease, or deed, may be necessary for some individuals.

Homeowners, on the other hand, will need proof of 2023 paid property taxes to their county, municipality, and school district. They will also need proof of income for 2023, including Social Security/Disability Form 1099, employment W-2, Pension/Retirement Form 1099, and Interest/Dividends Form 1099. A driver's license or photo identification is also required. Similar to renters, homeowners may need to provide additional documents depending on their circumstances.

Applicants who wish to receive their rebates through direct deposit should bring a check for account information. For those who do not provide account information, paper checks will be mailed. Disbursements are expected to begin after July 1.

For more information about the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program and to access additional resources, residents can visit RepCauser.com.

Source: Representative Martin T. Causer, Pennsylvania House of Representatives