BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Time is running out for eligible Pennsylvanians to apply for the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate.
The program is designed to put cash back into the pockets of older residents and people with disabilities to help offset housing costs.
The last day to apply is Wednesday, Dec. 31.
The rebate is meant to help seniors, widows and widowers and residents with disabilities who paid property taxes or rent in 2024.
Depending on income, eligible homeowners and renters can receive up to $1,000 back (see qualifying income table below).
"The Governor and our team want to make sure the program reaches as many eligible people as possible — that’s why it’s critically important for Pennsylvanians to file their rebate applications prior to the December 31 deadline."Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne
State officials say with the deadline fast approaching, they want to ensure those who qualify do not miss out.
“Our employees at the Department of Revenue see firsthand every day how impactful the PTRR program is for the people in need across Pennsylvania who receive a rebate,” state Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne said in a news release.
“The Governor and our team want to make sure the program reaches as many eligible people as possible — that’s why it’s critically important for Pennsylvanians to file their rebate applications prior to the December 31 deadline.
“With the filing deadline right around the corner, there are many places to go for in-person assistance. That includes our department’s district offices and the offices for your state legislators.
“As the Governor has said, there is no wrong door to access this program and receive a rebate that could make a real difference for you and your family.”
Who qualifies for the program?
The program is open to:
- Pennsylvanians age 65 and older
- Widows and widowers age 50 and older
- People with disabilities age 18 and older
Applicants must reapply each year because the rebate is based on annual income and the rent or property taxes paid the previous year.
For 2024 income, rebates range from $380 to $1,000, with the largest rebates going to households with the lowest incomes. Both homeowners and renters may qualify.
| INCOME | MAX STANDARD REBATE |
| $0 - $8,270 | $1,000 |
| $8,271 - $15,510 | $770 |
| $15,511 - $18,610 | $460 |
| $18,611 - $46,520 | $380 |
Expanded benefits
The rebate program was expanded during Gov. Josh Shapiro’s first year in office, marking its first major update in nearly two decades.
The changes increased the maximum rebate from $650 to $1,000, raised income limits so more people qualify, and tied those limits to inflation so they rise with the cost of living.
This year, the Department of Revenue said it already has processed nearly 513,000 rebates totaling more than $314 million.
Last year, more than 522,000 people received rebates, including more than 106,000 first-time applicants who qualified because of the expanded rules.
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is online through the myPATH website, which is available in English and Spanish and does not require creating an account.
Applicants receive immediate confirmation, and built-in tools help calculate eligibility.
In-person help also available at Department of Revenue district offices, Area Agencies on Aging, and state lawmakers’ offices across Pennsylvania.
Applicants who choose direct deposit will receive their rebate electronically, while others will get a paper check by mail.
Those who have already applied can track their application using the “Where’s My Rebate?” tool on myPATH.
