Homestead and Farmstead Program Offers Property Tax Relief in Erie County

Homeowners across Erie County may be eligible for property tax relief through Pennsylvania’s Homestead and Farmstead Exclusion Program, but must file an application to receive the benefit if they are not already enrolled.

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Under the state’s Taxpayer Relief Act, the Commonwealth provides funding to school districts to reduce property taxes on eligible properties. The reduction is applied through either a homestead or farmstead exclusion and is available for most owner-occupied homes and farms. Only a primary residence qualifies for the tax reduction.

To receive school property tax relief for tax years that begin July 1 or January 1, applications must be submitted by March 1 of the preceding year. Once a property is approved for the program, homeowners do not need to reapply each year. Residents are encouraged to verify their enrollment status before submitting a new application.

Applications must be filed through the county tax assessment office where the property is located. In Erie County, applications are handled by the Assessment Office at the Erie County Courthouse, located at 140 West Sixth Street, Room 104, in Erie. The office can also be reached by phone at 814-451-6225.

The Homestead and Farmstead Exclusion Program is supported through state gaming funds. Additional information and application materials are available through the county assessment office.