Applications for the state's Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program for 2006 are now available, announced Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint).

These are the first applications available under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 2006 (Act 1), which expanded eligibility for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program.

The new law increases the income limit from $15,000 to $35,000 for homeowners and boosts the maximum rebate from $500 to $650. Those who apply should deduct half of any Social Security - including Medicare premiums - or railroad retirement benefits from other income when determining eligibility.

The program benefits people who are 65 or older, widows and widowers 50 or older, and disabled people 18 or older. Individuals and married couples who meet the age and income requirements can apply for a rebate based on the amount of property tax or rent they paid during the previous year. The rebate breakdown is as follows:

Applicants can receive a property tax or rent rebate only on a residence they occupied during the period for which a rebate is claimed. Applications must be filed by June 30.

Residents are reminded to provide all the necessary income, property tax or rental information required to process claims quickly and accurately.

To receive a Property Tax/Rent Rebate application, contact one of Causer's offices:

· 78 Main Street, First Floor, in Bradford, telephone 814-362-4405.

· 2 Allegany Avenue in Coudersport, telephone 814-274-9769.

Applications are also available online at RepCauser.com.

Labels: causer, mckean county, taxes