PHILADELPHIA HOMESTEAD TAX EXEMPTION MUST BE FILED NOW!

Real estate taxes in Philadelphia are now in chaos.  With the City and School budgets now pending, there is confusion and uncertainty about the planned full value reassessments, the new tax millage rate, and various buffering proposals.  Currently there is no Homestead Exemption in Philadelphia, but if it becomes available for 2013 taxes, eligibility will require filing the application by July 31, 2012, even though the exemption amount is not yet known.  The application form only requires a certification that the property is the taxpayer’s primary residence.  The form and instructions are available on the Office of Property Assessment website at www.phila.gov/opa