Long lines for Philadelphia tax amnesty’s last day

You wait outside and then inside

Despite the hot weather, Philadelphia’s tax delinquents lined up near 13th and Walnut Streets Friday for the final day of the city’s tax amnesty program.

Dozens of people waited outside the building for their chance to ride up the elevator and wait in another line at the Tax Amnesty office.

Everyone had a story about how they ended up here. Some people failed to pay taxes on multiple rental properties. One man said his wife used to take care of the taxes and he didn’t know she’d stopped.

And there were stories of personal economic struggle in a tough economy. Like East Oak Lane resident Jonathan Jackson.

“I’m a realtor and the economy is not all that great so since we took this crash in this Recession you know Hey I’m lucky I’m able to pay my mortgage – like most folks!”

For tax delinquents who are granted amnesty, the city will waive all penalties and half the interest due on eligible delinquent tax bills.