Rep. Martin Causer, R-Cameron, is pictured during a recent Senior Citizens Expo.

Area residents have until Dec. 31 to apply for the state’s 2023 Property Tax/Rent Rebate program.

The program was expanded in 2023 to boost both income levels and maximum rebates after going nearly two decades with no changes. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program benefits eligible residents 65 years and older; widows and widowers 50 years and older; and people with disabilities 18 years and older.

“We significantly expanded eligibility for the program this year, and increased the maximum rebate,” said Rep. Martin Causer, R-Cameron. “I encourage anyone who qualifies or thinks they may qualify to contact our offices for free assistance with filing for the benefit.”

Income limits increased this year to $45,000 for both homeowners and renters, and the maximum rebate also increased to $1,000. Those applying need to exclude 50% of Social Security when determining their income.

Renters will need a 2023 PA Rent Certificate, completed by their landlord, or statement from HUD office; 2023 proof of income, such as Social Security/Disability Form 1099, employment W-2, Pension/Retirement Form 1099 and Interest/Dividends Form 1099; and a driver’s license or photo identification. Some may also need to bring a death certificate, life lease or deed.

Homeowners will need proof of 2023 paid property taxes to their county, municipality and school district; 2023 proof of income, such as Social Security/Disability Form 1099, employment W-2, Pension/Retirement Form 1099 and Interest/Dividends Form 1099; and a driver’s license or photo identification. Some may also need to bring a death certificate, life lease or deed.

Applicants who want to receive their rebates through direct deposit should bring a check for account information. If not, paper checks will be mailed.

Through September, more than 500,000 tax rebates totaling more than $304 million for older Pennsylvanians and people with disabilities had been processed, nearly double the amount distributed through the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program at the same point in 2023. Roughly 107,000 first-time applications were received through September.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said in October there are thousands of Pennsylvanians who qualify for a rebate but had not submitted an application, including many people who were previously approved for a rebate but hadn’t reapplied.

“I made a promise to deliver relief for seniors and people with disabilities across the commonwealth who told me that they needed just a little more help to stay in their homes – and I’m proud that we’ve kept that promise . In my first year, we brought Democrats and Republicans together to expand the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program — to ensure that it remains a lifeline that helps our older friends and neighbors stay in their homes,” Shapiro said. “Thanks to our bipartisan efforts, more than half a million Pennsylvanians are getting a tax cut this year – and we’re showing once again that we can get stuff done when we work together.”