The City of Allentown is again extending the 2020 City Real Estate Tax payment due dates.

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf signed Senate Bill 841 this week. Among other things, the bill provides flexibility on property tax deadlines and allows remote public meetings. The measure allows taxing districts to waive late fees and penalties for property taxes paid by December 31, 2020.

“This bipartisan legislation gives local governments and businesses additional options to help property taxpayers and address various needs,” said Gov. Wolf. “COVID-19 remains a very real threat and each of us needs to continue doing our part to cut back on physical interactions. This new law is a measured and safe way to provide relief as we continue to monitor the spread of the virus.”

The city will extend the discount period for payment of 2020 City Real Estate Taxes until August 31, 2020 to provide financial relief to property owners during this uncertain time. All 2020 City Real Estate Tax paid or postmarked on or before August 31, 2020, is eligible for a 2% discount on the tax portion only of their 2020 City Real Estate Tax bill. The measure also extends the deadline to pay the 2020 City Real Estate Tax gross amount in full without penalty to December 31, 2020.

Mayor Ray O’Connell and City Council approved a Disaster Emergency declaration on March 18. It authorizes taking emergency management measures to reduce the severity of this disaster and to protect the health, safety and welfare of affected residents in Allentown.

At that time, O’Connell extended the city real estate tax discount period from April 5 to May 5 and extended the filing due date for 2019 Business Privilege Tax until July 15, 2020.

“All of government is trying to do what it thinks is best during these most unusual times,” said O’Connell. “The stay-at-home order has severely impacted the ability to pay for many of our residents. We hope this extension will allow more time to get everybody back on their feet.”

City Council has scheduled a special meeting for Monday, April 27 at 6:00 p.m. to vote to ratify the new real estate tax deadline and discount period extensions as well as the BPT filing extension.

Information provided to TVL by:
Mike Moore
Communications Manager
Mayor’s Office
435 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
Mike.Moore@allentownpa.gov
http://www.AllentownPA.gov

 

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