Philly offering help for people behind on property taxes

There are two new programs to help Philadelphia homeowners with overdue property taxes.

Philadelphia Revenue Commissioner Clarena Tolson says many low-income Philadelphia residents don’t know about a new program to help them catch up with their outstanding property taxes. It’s called Fresh Start and allows people to make monthly payments on their back taxes, if they meet certain income requirements.

“The agreement covers past unpaid taxes only,” Tolson said. “This is a one-time opportunity to move into the program. If the person handles it properly they can move forward with the program and participate as needed.”

Senior citizens can qualify for the Tax Freeze program. Tolson says that gives seniors with household income less than $32,000 a year ($23,500 for individuals) an opportunity to stop the clock on property tax hikes.

“We are very supportive and hope the people who are eligible for this program will come forward and apply. It’s intended to keep people in their homes and mitigate the circumstances that might challenge them in staying current in their taxes.”

More information can be found at the city’s website www.phila.gov/revenue.