HOMEOWNERS in one major US city can bag an immediate tax freeze and refund.
Residents of the city of Philadelphia can enrol now for the low-income property tax freeze.
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And you have until the end of September to do so after the deadline was extended.
Homeowners who earn below a certain income will be eligible for the freeze – no matter what age.
You must own and live in the property as your primary residence.
Under the scheme, the amount of property tax you pay will be frozen – rather than increasing each year.
This applies even if your property assessment of the tax rate changes.
The income requirements are below $33,500 for a single person or below $41,500 for a married couple.
You must submit proof of your income along with your application and any other requested documents to show that you qualify.
If you are accepted onto the program, your property tax bill will be frozen at the previous year’s amount.
You can qualify for the tax freeze together with the Homestead Exemption.
A bill extending the deadline to September 30 was passed back in June.
The easiest way to apply is online.
Head to the Philadelphia Tax Center webpage, and click “Search for a property” under the “Property” panel.
You are not required to create an account.
Councilmember Jamie Gauthier (3rd District) said: “By making sure low-income homeowners can afford their tax bills, we invest in their ability to remain in our neighborhoods – where they can continue to shop, dine, and work on our commercial corridors, steward our neighborhoods and public spaces, and reinforce their block’s sense of community.”
Councilmember Rue Landau (At-Large) said: “I’ve been by Councilmember Gauthier’s side since she introduced this legislation, because it’s work that I’ve seen the impact of firsthand.
“As a housing attorney, I have seen how difficult rising property taxes can make putting food on the table, buying essentials, and simply staying housed.
“By locking in property taxes at an affordable rate, we’re not just offering financial relief; we’re giving homeowners the ability to stay in their homes and their neighborhoods.”
Revenue Commissioner Kathleen McColgan said: “The Low-Income Tax Freeze provides crucial protections from Sheriff Sales and long-term savings to vulnerable homeowners.
“By extending the deadline, we have more time to connect with eligible homeowners and make a lasting impact on their lives.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with City Council and community partners to expand our reach.”
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