The Homestead/Farmstead application is a requirement of the Tax Relief Act (Act 1).
The application is processed and approved by the Assessment Office. Once an application is approved as a homestead/farmstead the owner is eligible for the tax relief and will not have to file again unless circumstances change regarding the property. Each year prior to December 31, individuals who do not have an approved application on file, as well as those who have acquired property within the school district during the year, will be sent an application for completion. Forms can also be obtained by calling 610.582.6140, ext. 1164. This application MUST be filed with the Assessment Office by March 1.
It is very important that eligible taxpayers complete this form by March 1. If the filing deadline is missed, the taxpayer will not be eligible for any tax relief which would occur with the school tax bill mailed on July 1 of that year.
Any questions regarding whether your property has or is approved can be addressed by contacting the Berks County Homestead Office at 610.478.6262.