Homeowners, renters can apply for rebates

Income levels for rebates





Following are the rebate amounts for homeowners and renters:





*For income level at $8,000 or less, the rebate is $650





*For income of $8,001 to $15,000, the rebate is $500





*For income of $15,001 to $18,000, the rebate is $300, for owners only.





*For income of $18,001 to $35,000, the rebate is $250, for owners only.

















HARRISBURG -- Applications for the state's property tax/rent rebate program for 2006 are available.





These are the first applications under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 2006, which expanded eligibility for the 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.





The income limit for renters is $15,000.





Those who apply can deduct half of any Social Security, including Medicare premiums, or railroad retirement benefits from other income when determining eligibility.





The program benefits people 65 and older, widows and widowers age 50 and older, and disabled people 18 and over. Individuals and married couples who meet the age and income requirements can apply based on the amount of property tax or rent they paid during the previous year.





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.





To receive a property tax/rent rebate application, contact the office of Rep. Michele Brooks, R-17th, at (724) 588-8911 or call, toll-free, (800) 457-2040, or visit the Web site at www.repmichelebrooks.com.





Applications also are available at the office of state Rep. Jaret Gibbons, 309 Fifth St. in Ellwood City.





"My staff can help anyone figure out if they qualify for a rebate," he said, "and will help you fill out the paperwork and submit it to the state to get your rebate as quickly as possible."