Thousands of Pennsylvania residents may now qualify for a $1,000 rent or property tax rebate thanks to an extended deadline. The state aims to provide financial relief to older adults and individuals with disabilities who face rising housing costs.
This program plays a key role in helping residents remain in their homes and maintain stability.
Who qualifies for the $1,000 rent rebate?
To qualify, residents must meet both age and income requirements:
- Homeowners or renters age 65 or older
- Widows and widowers age 50 or older
- Individuals with disabilities age 18 or older
In addition, applicants must fall within income limits set by the state. The rebate amount depends on income level and housing expenses, with a maximum of $1,000 per eligible household.
When is the deadline to apply?
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration recently extended the application deadline to December 31, 2025. This gives eligible Pennsylvanians more time to apply for the expanded program.
Residents can submit applications:
- Online through mypath.pa.gov
- By mail using the official form
- In person at local Department of Revenue offices
Officials encourage early submissions to avoid processing delays.
Why this rebate matters
The rebate program uses funding from Pennsylvania’s lottery and gaming revenue. It provides targeted assistance to residents on fixed or limited incomes.
In 2024, the program distributed over 522,000 rebates, totaling $319 million—a major increase from the previous year. In 2022, the state issued 405,000 rebates worth $192 million. The sharp rise reflects a recent program expansion backed by bipartisan support.
So far in 2025, nearly 400,000 residents have already submitted applications. Officials expect about 41,000 more to enroll before the deadline.
What officials are saying
During an event at the West Shore Senior Center in Cumberland County, state leaders highlighted the impact of the program.
“Affordable housing continues to be a central concern for our older adults,” said Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich. “This program allows more people to remain in their homes and stay active in their communities.”
Kavulich also noted that the program strengthens local economies by helping seniors avoid displacement.
How to get help applying
The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue offers multiple support options. Residents can:
- Call the department’s toll-free helpline
- Visit a local revenue office
- Contact an Area Agency on Aging for free application assistance
These resources are available to ensure everyone who qualifies has access to the benefit.
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