PHILADELPHIA, PA — The City of Philadelphia has long been committed to supporting its residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable. Now, in a bid to offer some relief to low-income and elderly homeowners struggling with property taxes, the city is offering the Real Estate Tax Installment Plan.
A Helping Hand for Homeowners
This program allows eligible homeowners to pay their property tax bills in monthly installments throughout the year, without incurring any interest or penalties. It’s a welcome solution for many who find the lump sum payment challenging.
All Philadelphia seniors who own and live in their homes are eligible for this program, regardless of income. Non-senior residents may also qualify if their household income and family size meet the program’s guidelines.
The Time to Act is Now
The city is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Installment Plan. The deadline is March 31. This one-time application enables new participants to pay their bills in eight installments in the first year.
Before applying, residents are encouraged to review the program flyer to check eligibility. If applying as a senior citizen, you must be at least 65 years old, or have a spouse living in the same home who is at least 65. For all other residents, family size and household income guidelines must be met to qualify as a low-income taxpayer.
Applying Made Easy
Applications can be made quickly and easily online via the Philadelphia Tax Center. The site is user-friendly and fully accessible in Spanish. No username or password is required to apply for Real Estate Tax assistance programs on this website.
For those who prefer paper applications, forms can be completed and returned. These are also available in Spanish and Simplified Chinese.
What Happens Next?
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an acceptance letter from the Department of Revenue, followed by monthly payment notices. Please note that the Department no longer sends coupon books to participants. Taxpayers now receive monthly bills.
Once all required monthly payments are made, you are automatically enrolled in the Installment Plan for the following year. You don’t need to reapply unless there’s a change to your property deed. However, a missed payment could end your participation in the program, requiring you to restart the application process.
This tax relief initiative offers a much-needed financial reprieve for Philadelphia’s seniors and low-income homeowners, making it a little easier to keep their homes in the city they love. For more information, visit the Philadelphia Tax Center.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.