STEELTON, Pa. — Thousands of older Pennsylvanians are expecting to get some relief from rising costs.
"The check is, literally, in the mail," said Governor Josh Shapiro.
On Wednesday, the Shapiro administration met with seniors in Dauphin County to announce the distribution of $266 million in Property Tax/ Rent Rebate checks. The announcement comes after Governor Shapiro signed the first expansion of the state’s rebate program since 2006.
“We want to make sure you get the help you need to combat rising costs, put more money in your pocket, and help you deal with living on a fixed income," said Gov. Shapiro.
More than 442,000 older Pennsylvanians will start receiving their rebate checks on July 1. Last year, roughly 283,000 homeowners were given rebates totaling around $132 million.
Steelton resident, Elizabeth Bryant, said the expansion of the rebate program will personally help her. Last year, her rebate application was denied after she started working a part-time job.
Bryant said the checks are lifesavers for her and her neighbors.
“Sometimes we can’t buy those necessities during the year because our incomes are very limited," said Bryant. "So when the rent rebates do come in July, it’s a blessing.”
While the first round of checks will be sent out on Monday, the Shapiro administration still encourages seniors to apply for the rebate program. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue says there are still 125,000 people who are eligible for a rebate check that have not applied.
“What are you waiting for? Come get your money," encouraged Gov. Shapiro.
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is eligible for Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows/widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
Anyone who is eligible can file an application on the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue's website, or by going to local Areas on Aging and state legislators' offices.
The deadline to file for a rebate is December 31.