Philadelphia streamlines application process for real estate tax assistance programs
Source: City of Philadelphia
The City of Philadelphia has created a single application for its five real estate tax assistance programs. This will make it easier for homeowners to apply for all programs that can reduce their Philadelphia real estate tax bill.
The project combines the applications for the following real estate assistance programs:
- Homestead Exemption.
- Longtime Owner Occupants Program (LOOP).
- Senior and Low-Income Real Estate Tax Freeze programs.
- Real Estate Tax Installment Plan.
Each of these programs has different eligibility requirements, due dates and savings. The combined Real Estate Tax assistance application helps residents easily identify the programs for which they qualify. It also removes barriers to obtaining tax relief.
Philadelphia homeowners can f ind the application by searching for their property address on the Property Panel of the Philadelphia Tax Center at tax-services.phila.gov. The Tax Center is accessible on mobile devices and tablets. It is available in English and Spanish.
“By combining these applications into one, we’re making it easier for homeowners to get the tax relief they are entitled to,” said Kathleen McColgan, Philadelphia revenue commissioner. “We know nearly 80% of homeowners are taking advantage of real estate programs for which they are eligible. Along with our extensive and ongoing outreach efforts to inform taxpayers, which include advertising, letters and door-to-door outreach, creating a more streamlined application process will improve participation and reduce that gap.”
Philadelphia’s real estate tax assistance programs explained
Homestead Exemption – Reduces the home’s assessed value by $100,000, which also reduces the tax bill. There are no age or income requirements. Learn more at phila.gov/homestead.
Low-Income Tax Freeze – Homeowners save by paying the same amount in taxes every year. The real estate tax bill can be fro zen based on the most recent qualifying year, starting in 2024. Proof of income, identity and residence is required. Learn more at phila.gov/tax-freeze.
Senior Citizen Tax Freeze – Homeowners save by paying the same amount in taxes every year. For those eligible between 2018 and now, the amount of taxes will be frozen at the lowest amount from the first year eligible. Proof of age and income is required. Learn more at phila.gov/tax-freeze.
Longtime Owner Occupants Program (LOOP) – Caps the home’s assessed value and limits future tax increases, which will save money over time. Homeowners must have experienced significant assessment increases, owned the home for at least 10 years and meet income limits. Learn more at phila.gov/loop.
Real Estate Tax Installment Payment Agreement – Pay current taxes in installments, instead of in one full payment. All older adults qualify regardless of income. Income limits apply to applicants younger than 65. Proof of age is required for all applicants. Proof of income for those under 65 is required. Learn more at phila.gov/revenue/installment-plan.
For Philadelphia real estate tax information, call 215-686-6442, visit tax-services.phila.gov or email revenue@phila.gov.
