By Rep. Kinkead

For families living on low incomes in Pennsylvania, financial assistance is available through LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) to help pay heating bills during the cold winter months. Approved applicants for LIHEAP receive a one-time cash grant (does not need to be repaid) that is sent directly to their utility company or fuel provider. Additional LIHEAP benefits may be available for households experiencing a heating emergency, like a broken heater or gas line that must be replaced.

Both renters and homeowners may qualify for LIHEAP, as long as they meet the income guidelines. Visit dhs.pa.gov/LIHEAP to apply online and get more information on this state program that continues to be a critical lifeline for many families. If you have questions or would like help applying to LIHEAP, contact my office at (412) 321-5523 and we will be happy to assist you or your loved ones.

Cash rebates and resources for renters and homeowners

Another annual state program helping Pennsylvanians keep more of their hard-earned money is the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program (PTRR). So far in 2024, more than 500,000 rebates have been issued through PTRR, resulting in over $304 million being returned to Pennsylvania taxpayers. Thanks to a new law I supported in the state House that expanded PTRR, an additional 175,000 people are newly eligible this year and the maximum rebate amount has increased to $1,000.

Pennsylvania seniors and people with disabilities whose household income is $45,000 or less may be eligible for PTRR. If you think you might be eligible — don’t delay! You only have until the end of the year to apply for rebates on rent or taxes paid in 2023. My office can help determine your eligibility and with the application process.

If you own or rent a home in Allegheny County, you may also be eligible for the Allegheny Lead-Safe Homes Program, which offers free lead-paint testing and remediation to qualifying households. Exposure to lead can cause a range of health problems, especially for young children. Lead-based paint wasn’t banned in the United States until 1978, so if you live in an older home, I strongly encourage you to have your home tested. For more information on the Lead-Safe Homes Program, contact ACTION-Housing at (412) 227-5700.

Discounted public transportation

Pennsylvanians 65 or older can obtain a Senior Citizen ConnectCard at no cost that allows them to ride public transit vehicles for free across the Commonwealth. If you or someone you know is eligible, all they need to do is swing by my office in Bellevue with a form of ID that has their date of birth on it and we can take care of the rest.

Allegheny County residents currently receiving SNAP benefits may be eligible for 50% off all Pittsburgh Regional Transit fares through Allegheny Go, a new county program specifically for SNAP recipients that rely on public transit. To apply for Allegheny Go, you’ll need to have a smartphone, download the Ready2Ride app, and create an account. For help navigating the app, call PRT Customer Service at (412) 442-2000.