READ AND PASSED

The enacted ordinance changes Philadelphia’s Realty Use and Occupancy Tax rules for taxpayers who appeal the assessed value of taxable property. While a timely appeal is pending, taxpayers who pay at least the prior year’s tax are not charged interest, penalties, or costs, and the Department cannot bill more than the prior year’s tax; after the appeal, overpayments are credited and remaining balances can be paid within 30 days without those charges.

Amending Section 19-1806 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Realty Use and Occupancy Tax," by tolling interest, penalties and costs when the assessed value of taxable property is under appeal; limiting what the Department can bill for tax years under appeal; and requiring for the tax year under appeal payment of an amount at least equal to the prior year's tax; all under certain terms and conditions.