How to Apply for Pennsylvania’s Homestead Exemption & Save on Property Taxes
If you own a home in Pennsylvania, you may qualify for property tax savings through the Homestead Exemption Program. This program can reduce your taxable home value, lowering your annual property taxes—but many homeowners don’t realize they need to apply!
In this guide, we’ll break down:
What the Homestead Exemption is & how much you can save
Who qualifies for it
How and when to apply in different PA counties
How this impacts home sellers & investors
And if you're thinking about buying a home or investing in rental properties, I can help you maximize tax benefits while finding the right property!
What Is Pennsylvania’s Homestead Exemption?
The Homestead Exemption is a program that helps Pennsylvania homeowners lower their property tax bills by reducing the assessed taxable value of their primary residence.
For example, if your home is assessed at $250,000 and your county offers a $40,000 exemption, your taxable value is reduced to $210,000, meaning you pay less in property taxes.
How Much Can You Save?
Savings vary by county and school district but typically range from $100 to $500+ per year.
Important: You must apply for the exemption—it’s not automatic!
Who Qualifies for the Homestead Exemption in Pennsylvania?
You must own and live in the home as your primary residence.
Vacation homes, rental properties, and second homes do not qualify.
Some areas also offer additional exemptions for senior citizens, veterans, and disabled homeowners.
How to Apply for the Homestead Exemption in Pennsylvania
Deadline: Most counties require applications by March 1 to qualify for that year’s tax reduction.
How to Apply:
Find Your County’s Application Form
Provide Proof of Residency (such as a driver’s license or utility bill).
Submit the Application online or by mail before the deadline.
Here is the expanded list of counties in Pennsylvania where you can apply for the Homestead Exemption along with their application links and deadlines:
Southeastern PA Counties
📍 Philadelphia County: Apply Here (Deadline: December 1)
📍 Montgomery County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Bucks County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Chester County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Delaware County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
Central & Lehigh Valley Counties
📍 Lehigh County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Lancaster County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Dauphin County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Carbon County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
Additional Nearby Counties
📍 Berks County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Northampton County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Schuylkill County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Monroe County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 Pike County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
📍 York County: Apply Here (Deadline: March 1)
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether you’ve already applied, check your property tax bill or contact your county’s Assessment Office directly.
Let me know if you'd like to explore homeownership or investment opportunities in these areas—I’d love to help!
Special Exemptions for Seniors & Disabled Homeowners
In addition to the Homestead Exemption, Pennsylvania offers:
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program: Available for seniors (65+), widows/widowers (50+), and disabled homeowners with low to moderate incomes. Apply here.
Disabled Veterans Exemption: Provides full property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans. Learn more here.
Thinking About Moving? How the Homestead Exemption Affects Buyers & Sellers
Whether you're buying or selling, it’s important to understand how the Homestead Exemption impacts real estate transactions.
For Home Sellers 🏡
If your home qualifies for the exemption, let potential buyers know—they'll benefit from lower property taxes!
If you move before selling, the exemption may no longer apply—check with your county to see if it transfers.
📌 Need help selling your home? I can help maximize your sale price and minimize tax implications!
For Home Buyers 🤝
Check if a home already has the exemption—this could mean lower taxes for you as the new owner.
If you buy after the exemption deadline, you may need to apply next year to get the benefit.
📌 Looking for a home with tax savings? Let’s find the right place for you!
Want to Buy or Sell a Home in Pennsylvania? Let’s Talk!
Whether you're selling your home, buying your dream house, or investing in rental properties, understanding tax exemptions and savings can make a big difference in your real estate decisions.
📅 Schedule a free consultation
📩 Or email me at Shaina@MontCoLiving.com
