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Each year Iowans who are elderly or have a disability may be able to benefit from property tax credits on their home or rent reimbursement on their apartment or mobile home lot rent.

These programs are based on your annual household income for 2011. Household income includes social security, wages, pension and interest for everyone living in the same household.

If you get a rent subsidy, the amount of your subsidy is also counted as income.

To be eligible for these programs, you must have household income for the year 2011 of less than $20,906. You need to be at least 65 years old OR disabled and at least 18 years old.

Remember, you must apply each year for these programs.

If you are in a nursing home but still own and maintain your homestead, you can apply for the property tax credit. If you live in a nursing home and no longer own a home, you may be eligible for rent reimbursement.  For rent rebate, you will need to find out from your nursing home how much of your total payment is for rent.

You should apply between January 1 and June 1, 2012. For rent rebate you can call the Iowa Department of Revenue at 1-800-367-3388.

For property tax credit application contact your County treasurer.

Forms and instructions for all programs can be found on the Iowa Department of Revenue website and at Seneca Area Agency on Aging central office at 117 N. Cooper Ottumwa.

For more information about forms and instructions, or any senior or caregiver related issues, please call us at Seneca Area Agency on Aging 641-682-2270 or 1-800-642-6522.