The state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, supported by the state lottery, benefits Pennsylvanians 65 or older; widows and widowers 50 or older; and people with disabilities 18 or older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.

The maximum rebate a homeowner or renter can receive is $650. Seniors living in Allegheny County with incomes under $30,000 will receive an additional 50 percent rebate if their property taxes for 2010 were at least 15 percent of their income. The modification will be automatically computed by the Department of Revenue.

If you received a rebate last year, you should have received a 2010 application form in the mail. Applications are also available from your local representatives (the closet would be Senator Ferlo’s office on Butler Street), online, at local area agencies on aging  or senior centers, or by calling 1-888-222-9190.  If you need help filling out the form, Senator Ferlo’s staff can assist you; call them at 412.621.3006 or visit them at 3519 Butler Street.

The deadline to apply is June 30. Rebates will be distributed beginning July 1.

For any assistance or questions regarding the program, call 1-888-222-9190.