News Release
September 02, 1999 - Columbus, Ohio
- Energy Credit Program Deadline Extended
CONTACT: JAMES GERKO, (614)
728-1088
The deadline to apply for assistance for this winter's
heating bills through the Ohio Energy Credit Program has been
extended to November 1, 1999.
Ohio Tax Commissioner Thomas M. Zaino announced the extension
today. "This program assists thousands of low income senior
citizens and disabled Ohioans who struggle to pay their
winter heating bills." He added that by extending the
deadline, he hopes every Ohio citizen who wishes to apply for
the program will be able to do so. The Ohio Energy Credit
Program is administered by the Department of Taxation.
Beginning with this heating season (December, 1999 through
April, 2000), qualifying income levels will be indexed
annually to adjust for inflation.
To qualify for the Energy Credit Program, you must meet all
of the following requirements:
- Be head of household or spouse;
- Be 65 years of age or older in 1999 or be totally and
permanently disabled;
- Have a total household income of not more than $9,090 in
1998. If your 1998 income exceeds $9,090, you may still
qualify, if your total income in 1999 will not exceed $9,090
(January 1, 1999 through June 30, 1999 must not exceed
$4,545).
Benefits available for applicants are determined by income
and the type of heat used. The range of benefits for eligible
applicants is:
- 25% credit against winter heating bills -- when annual
income is between $5,051 and $9,090 (using electric or
natural gas heat);
- 30% credit against winter heating bills -- when annual
income is $5,050 or less (using electric or natural gas
heat);
- $125 one-time credit -- when annual income is less than
$9,090, using bottled propane, wood, or kerosene, or sharing
a meter, or paying rent which includes heat.
People who believe they are eligible for the Ohio Energy
Credit Program should call the Ohio Department of Taxation at
the toll-free number, 1-800-282-4310, or in Franklin County,
728-1081.
For more information contact:
Gary Gudmundson, Communications Director
Ohio Department of Taxation
(614) 644-6903