DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR PROPERTY TAX /RENT REBATE PROGRAM EXTENDED

HARRISBURG, July 7, 2003 - - Senator Connie Williams (D-Montgomery/Delaware) today announced that the deadline to apply for Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program (PTRR) has been extended from June 30 to December 31, 2003.

Eligible PTRR participants can receive a rebate of up to $500 based on their property taxes or rent paid during 2002. The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians 65 years or older; widows and widowers 50 years or older; and those with disabilities 18 years or older. The household eligibility income limit is $15,000, excluding one-half of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits.

Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms (PA-1000) are available online by visiting www.revenue.state.pa.us. Forms and assistance also are available at any of the Department of Revenue’s 23 district offices, which are listed in the government section of your local telephone directory. Forms and assistance also are available at local Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers, or by contacting Senator Williams’ district offices at 610-992-9790. Please be prepared to provide all the necessary income and property tax or rental information when contacting any of these locations in order for the claim to be processed accurately and quickly.

Applicants may verify receipt and check the status of their claims by calling 1-888-PATAXES. Please be ready to provide your Social Security Number and the anticipated amount of your rebate when calling. Those without touch-tone telephone service may call 1-888-222-9190.

“I hope all those who are eligible will take advantage of the deadline extension and apply for the rebate,” Williams said.