WHTM: CARLISLE, Pa. 197 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel received Active Volunteer Real Estate Tax Credits from Cumberland County worth $47,124.
The Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance in 2022 that established this tax credit to recognize the importance and commitment of volunteer EMS and fireman personnel.
Payments ranging from $87 to a maximum of $250 were given to volunteers who requested and were approved for the tax credits.
Commissioner Gary Eichelberger states, “the county continues to encourage its volunteer firefighters and EMS employees to apply each year for the tax credit.” They are a crucial component of our county, and we rely on them to assist our citizens during dire circumstances.
This real estate tax credit for active volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel were originally introduced in Cumberland County.
Commissioner Jean Foschi states, “This tax credit recognizes the hours’ volunteers devote to serving our county people and helps with the retention and attractiveness of volunteers.”
Except for the Library Tax, the volunteer tax credit offers financial incentives in the form of credits against Cumberland County Real Estate Tax.
Commissioner Vince DiFilippo stated, “We will continue to remind our volunteers to acquire the required papers throughout the year so that they have the information they need to quickly qualify for the tax credit.”
A certification form containing a list of volunteers who have satisfied the requirements of the organizations and have been in good standing for at least six months between Jan. 1 and Nov. 30 must be submitted by the applicant’s fire company or the EMS chief or manager.
Each year, volunteers must also submit a tax credit application and a copy of their paid real estate tax receipt, which their local tax collector must attest.
For the following five tax years, volunteers who are currently active but cannot perform their duties because they were hurt while responding to an emergency call are eligible for the tax credit.
