Philadelphia Property Tax Relief Programs: What You Need to Know

Owning a home in Philadelphia comes with responsibilities—including paying property taxes. But if you’re a senior, have a limited income, or have lived in your home for many years, you may be eligible for tax relief programs that can significantly reduce or freeze your tax bill.

Philadelphia offers several programs to help homeowners manage or lower their real estate taxes. Below, we break down the most important options available, including eligibility details, income limits, and how to apply.

1. Low-Income Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Freeze

What It Is

The Low-Income Senior Tax Freeze allows eligible seniors to “freeze” their property tax amount at the level it was when they applied. Once approved, your taxes won’t increase—even if your property value or the tax rate goes up.

Who’s It For?

This program is for senior homeowners in Philadelphia with limited income, offering them long-term relief from increasing property taxes.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be 65 or older, or 50+ if you’re the widow/widower of someone who was at least 65 when they passed
  
  
• Must own and occupy your home as your primary residence
  
  

Income Requirements (2024):

• $33,500 or less for a single person
  
  
• $41,500 or less for a married couple
  
  

How to Apply:

You’ll need to provide proof of income and age. Applications can be submitted online or by mail.

🔗 Apply or learn more on phila.gov

2. Low-Income Real Estate Tax Freeze

What It Is

This program is similar to the senior tax freeze but available to homeowners of any age who meet the income criteria. It ensures that property taxes won’t go up in future years once your application is approved.

Who’s It For?

Philadelphia homeowners of any age who are living on low income and want predictable property tax bills.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must own and live in the property as your primary residence
  
  
• Must meet income limits (updated annually)
  
  

Income Requirements (2024):

• $33,500 or less for a single person
  
  
• $41,500 or less for a married couple
  
  
• $41,500 or less for a head of household
  
  

How to Apply:

Documentation of income and residency will be required.

🔗 Apply or learn more on phila.gov

3. Homestead Exemption

What It Is

The Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable assessed value of your home by $80,000. This translates to savings of about $1,119 each year on your real estate tax bill.

Who’s It For?

All Philadelphia homeowners who own and live in their homes. There are no income limits, and it’s one of the easiest and most valuable programs to access.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must own the home
  
  
• Must live in it as your primary residence
  
  
• Only one exemption per household
  
  

Income Requirements:

None

How to Apply:

You only need to apply once—your exemption will remain in place as long as you own and live in the home.

🔗 Apply or learn more on phila.gov

4. Longtime Owner Occupants Program (LOOP)

What It Is

LOOP is designed to help longtime homeowners who are facing rapidly rising property taxes due to increased neighborhood property values. This program caps the amount your taxes can increase, even as assessments climb.

Who’s It For?

Residents who have lived in their homes for 10+ years and are being affected by major property tax increases caused by gentrification or neighborhood redevelopment.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must have owned and lived in the property as your primary residence for at least 10 years
  
  
• Your property assessment must have increased by at least 50% in one year or 75% over the last five years
  
  
• Must be current on real estate taxes or enrolled in a payment agreement
  
  
• Must meet income guidelines
  
  

Income Requirements (2024):

Varies based on household size. Examples include:

• $108,240 or less for a household of 2
  
  
• $134,150 or less for a household of 4
  Full income chart is available on the city’s website.
  
  

How to Apply:

Applicants must submit documentation showing their length of residency, income, and proof that they meet the assessment increase criteria.

🔗 Apply or learn more on phila.gov

Why These Programs Matter

Rising property taxes can make homeownership difficult—especially for seniors, families on fixed incomes, and longtime residents who want to remain in their neighborhoods. These programs are designed to keep housing affordable and protect residents from being priced out of their own homes.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Understanding which tax relief program you qualify for—and how to apply—can be confusing. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, or need help gathering the required documents, we’re here to guide you through the process.