BRADFORD – Applications for the 2023 Property Tax/Rent Rebate program are now open, and Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) is reminding area residents that free assistance is available through his office.

Even more senior citizens and people with disabilities are eligible for rebates through the program this year thanks to a new state law that increased income eligibility limits to $45,000 for both homeowners and renters, excluding 50% of Social Security income. The maximum rebate was also increased from $650 to $1,000.

“At a time when many are struggling to meet the rising cost of inflation, this is a great opportunity for people on fixed incomes to get some help with their rent or property taxes,” Causer said. “My office is happy to help make that happen at no charge.”

In addition to offering assistance at the Bradford, Coudersport and Kane legislative offices, Causer has also scheduled a series of Property Tax/Rent Rebate clinics across the area. The schedule is as follows:

• Kane Senior Center, 100 N. Fraley St., Kane: Tuesday, Feb. 13, 1-3 p.m.
• Emporium Senior Center, 105 E. Fourth St., Emporium: Tuesday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m. to noon. Appointments preferred. Call 814-486-3707.
• Eldred Senior Center, 169 Main St., Eldred: Wednesday, Feb. 21, 9-11 a.m.
• Galeton Public Library, 5 Park Lane, Galeton: Wednesday, Feb. 21, 1-3 p.m.
• Smethport Senior Center, 119 W. Main St., Smethport: Monday, Feb. 26, 9-11 a.m.
• Austin Borough Office, 21 Turner St., Austin: Tuesday, Feb. 27, 10 a.m. to noon.
• Ulysses Senior Center, 522 Main St., Ulysses: Wednesday, Feb. 28, 9-11 a.m.
• Port Allegany Senior Center, 216 N. Main St., Port Allegany: Wednesday, Feb. 28, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Bradford Senior Center, 60 Campus Drive, Bradford: Monday, March 4, 9-11 a.m.
• Mt. Jewett Senior Center, 8 E. Main St., Mt. Jewett: Tuesday, March 5, 1-3 p.m.
• Oswayo Valley Senior Center, 128 Lyons St., Shinglehouse: Wednesday, March 6, 9-11 a.m.
• Coudersport Senior Center, 165 Route 6 West, Coudersport: Wednesday, March 13, 9-11 a.m.

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.

Those who wish to attend one of the clinics or stop by Causer’s office for assistance are reminded to bring the following documentation to allow claims to be processed:

• 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 wish to receive their rebates through direct deposit should bring a check for account information. If not, paper checks will be mailed. Disbursements should begin after July 1.

More information is available at www.RepCauser.com.