Governor and Secretary of Aging Lead AARP Tele-Townhall on Property Tax/Rent Rebate Expansion

Harrisburg, PA - Governor Josh Shapiro and Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich were AARP Pennsylvania’s guests on an August 25 TeleTown Hall aimed at encouraging older and disabled Pennsylvanians to apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) program this year and informing them of the historic enhancements to the PTRR program, which AARP Pennsylvania advocated for, that will take effect in 2024.

The virtual event, streamed on Facebook and available on YouTube, aimed to provide clarity and engage Pennsylvanians on this historic initiative.

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The PTRR program expansion stands as Pennsylvania's most substantial targeted tax cut in nearly two decades. In this interactive session, questions from concerned Pennsylvanians shed light on the program's reach and impact.

Specifically, starting in 2024, the PTRR eligibility will broaden by approximately 175,000 individuals. For the current 400,000 beneficiaries, the rebates will nearly double. Particularly noteworthy is the raise in the maximum rebate from $650 to $1,000, accompanied by an income cap adjustment to $45,000 for both renters and homeowners, indexed to the cost of living.

Governor Shapiro, reflecting on his promise to address rising costs for citizens, expressed, "We heard from a lot of seniors that the $650 just wasn’t cutting it, so we brought that up to $1,000.”

Secretary Kavulich emphasized the transformative nature of the expansion, stating, "This is just the beginning of making sure that every older Pennsylvanian has the ability to age in place, safely, with dignity and respect in the community that they love."

Moderated by AARP Pennsylvania’s state director Bill Johnston-Walsh, the tele-town hall witnessed diverse inquiries ranging from eligibility criteria to the rationale behind the expansion.

Governor Shapiro's advocacy for PTRR expansion traces back to his campaign and budget address. The signed bill underscores his dedication to easing financial burdens for Pennsylvanians

As a champion for aging in place, AARP Pennsylvania recognizes being able to access affordable housing is critical. The PTRR program is recognized as a commonsense way to alleviate financial strain and enable older and disabled individuals to remain at home rather than enter a long-term care facility.

AARP Pennsylvania's State Director Bill Johnston-Walsh lauded Governor Shapiro's commitment, noting, "With bipartisan support, he delivered the largest targeted tax and rent rebate relief for Pennsylvanians in decades."

The core mission of AARP is to empower people to choose how they live as they age, and crucial aspect of this choice is deciding where to reside. The PTRR expansion will help many older and disabled adults pay utility bills, buy groceries, and live more comfortably in their home.

Since 1971, the PTRR program has disbursed over $8 billion in relief. There is no application fee and assistance with completing the application is available at multiple locations, including local state legislator offices and area agencies on aging. To learn more about the program, visit www.revenue.pa.gov/ptrr or call 1-888-222-9190.

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