On Oct. 22, Governor Tom Corbett signed House Bill 1067 into law. As a result, income eligibility guidelines for the state's Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program have changed in order to account for increased incomes due solely to Social Security cost of living adjustments.

Any homeowner who receives Social Security and has an income of up to $35,298 is encouraged to apply for the 2013 claim year property tax rebate. Also, renters who receive Social Security and have an income of up to $15,128 for the 2013 claim year can also apply.

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit is $35,298 a year for homeowners and $15,128 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.

Senator Pat Browne, R-16th, has been a strong advocate for property tax relief across the Commonwealth.

"I am pleased to hear the income qualifications have been raised for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program," Browne said. "This program provides much needed assistance to fixed income families all across the Commonwealth. Increasing this qualifying threshold means more Pennsylvanians will be able to receive a much needed reprieve from property tax and rent."

The Department of Revenue is automatically reviewing any previously denied rebates for the claim year 2013, which would now qualify due to these changes.

Browne also explained more information about the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program can be obtained through any of his district offices, including his Allentown Main District Office located at 702 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, or by calling 610-821-8468. Information can also be directly obtained from the Department of Revenue at the toll-free hotline 1-888-222-9190 or online at www.revenue. state.pa.us.