HARRISBURG – State Rep. Camille “Bud” George, D-74 of Clearfield County, reminded residents that deadlines are approaching for filing for property-tax relief, heating assistance and college aid.
“Enough slots revenues – more than $575 million – have accrued to begin reducing school property taxes for homeowners this summer,” George said. “However, exemption applications must be filed with the county by March 1 for home and farm owners to be eligible for relief.”
Although school districts were required to send applications by Dec. 31 to those not already exempt, applications and information are available by calling the Clearfield County Assessment Office at 765-2641, extension 5997. No fees are required.
Residents whose applications were approved previously under Act 72 – the Homeowner Tax Relief Act – do not need to apply again as long as they live in the same home.
“This summer’s tax relief will vary by school district and how much is in the kitty when the slots revenues are certified in April,” George said. “However, homeowners – especially new residents and people who have moved – should check their exemption status.”
George said the March 21 deadline to apply for LIHEAP, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, could change depending on funding.
LIHEAP cash grants of up to $300 help families pay regular heating bills. Crisis grants of up to $500 are available to pay for emergencies such as fuel shortages. The LIHEAP income guideline this season is $15,315 for an individual, adding $5,220 for each additional household member.
LIHEAP applications are available at county assistance offices. The number for Clearfield County is 765-0684 and toll free at 1-800-253-3488. The toll-free LIHEAP hotline is (1) 866 857-7095. Information about LIHEAP and other energy-assistance programs also is available
online.
George also is urging college-bound students, or their parents, to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid before the May 1 deadline.
“Some colleges may need the information sooner,” George said. “The FAFSA is the ticket for paying for higher education, and there is no advantage to waiting.”
FAFSA applications are available online at a number of Internet sites, including here, here and here. Paper applications are available by calling 1-800-433-3243 toll free.
“Please be wary about companies requesting payment to complete the FAFSA for you,” George said. “There are tutorials and resources that can help with almost any question.”
George said the FAFSA application and resources for college aid, including the House Scholarship Program, also are available on his Web site.