Deadline to apply for Philadelphia low-income property tax freeze extended 

Philadelphia property tax freeze
In this file photo, City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier participates in a hearing Tuesday, Nov. 19.
JACK TOMCZUK / METRO FILE PHOTO

City residents can still apply for Philadelphia’s low-income property tax freeze, a program that allows the Department of Revenue to stop Real Estate Tax bills from increasing for eligible homeowners. The application deadline has been extended  to Feb. 28.

Homeowners who enroll in the low-income tax freeze before the deadline will have their property tax bill frozen at its 2024 amount, even if their assessed property value or tax rate increases. This programs helps seniors and other low-income homeowners remain in their homes as housing costs and property tax bills increase.

“Ensuring that longtime residents, especially low-income families and individuals, can afford to stay in their homes remains a top priority for me,” said Council President Kenyatta Johnson. “The low-income tax freeze provides critical relief to those who need it most, helping to prevent displacement amidst rising property costs. This initiative is a key step toward equitable neighborhoods for all.”

Single-person households earning no more than  $33,500 annually and married couples earning no more than $41,500 annually are eligible for the low-income property tax freeze. Homeowners can apply online via the Philadelphia Tax Center, by mail, or in-person at one of the city’s services centers. Proof of income is required.

Advocates for the freeze, including Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who sponsored the bill creating the program, have said it should help those who do not qualify for or receive enough assistance from existing initiatives, such as the Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Freeze and the Long-term Owner Occupants Program (LOOP).

“By making sure low-income homeowners can afford their tax bills we defy displacement and keep families in their homes, so they can continue to shop, dine, and work on our commercial corridors, steward our neighborhoods and public spaces, and reinforce their block’s sense of community,” Gauthier said.

The Reinvestment Fund, in an analysis released when lawmakers were considering the legislation, estimated that about 62,000 households would be eligible for the Low-Income Tax Freeze. As of Jan. 23, more than 1,600 homeowners have been approved for the tax freeze.

Residents with questions about the freeze or other tax relief programs can call the Department of Revenue at 215-686-6442.