The Allegheny County Volunteer Service Tax Credit Program (VSTC) provides active service members of volunteer fire companies or nonprofit emergency services with real estate tax incentive for their primary residence.
The Incentive?
Up to a 100% refund on their Real Estate Taxes
(with a maximum of $500)
The Timeline
Eligibility Year
(The year where service members complete their eligibility requirements.)
January 1 – October 31: Service members complete their eligibility requirements.
NO LATER THAN November 30: Chiefs or designated supervisor approve, notarize, and submit a list of eligible service members.
Tax Credit Year
(The year service members receive their VSTC credit.)
January 1 – March 31: Service members submit their application (with Chief approval) to the County Treasurer.
NO LATER THAN June 1: The Treasurer’s Office issues VSTC certifications to service members.
September 1 – December 31: The Treasurer’s Office issue refunds to approved applicants by the end of the year.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the VSTC, applicants must:
- Have at least one year of service with a volunteer emergency service agency
- Own (in whole or in part) property in Allegheny County
- Complete at least two of the following requirements:
- Respond to a minimum of 10% of annual emergency calls (or 25 calls, whichever number is lower)
- Attend at least 24 hours of formal training and drills
- Participate in 20 hours of administrative or support functions (fundraising, facility maintenance, etc.)
- Participate in 20 hours of other approved events or projects to support operational readiness
PLEASE NOTE: Unsuccessful applicants will be notified in writing and have 30 days from the date of their rejection to appeal. Any and all questions regarding eligibility for this program should be directed to department chiefs.
Resources:
(Available for download)
- Blank Eligibility Roster (for chiefs and supervisors)
- VSTC Informational One-Pager
Questions?
Please reach out to the Treasurer’s Office Customer Service Center at 412-350-4100 or email TreasurerVSTCDept@AlleghenyCounty.Us.
Erica Rocchi Brusselars, Allegheny County Treasurer
Allegheny County Courthouse, Room 108, 436 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 | PHONE: 412-350-4100