In certain situations, taxpayers may pay more than they actually owe on City taxes, bills, files, or fees. This can happen when you’re eligible for discounts, credits, reductions, or if a clerical error occurs.
To claim a refund, you must request, or “petition,” the City by filling out the appropriate form and providing any other required documentation.
Unless you’re applying for a Wage Tax refund, you will need to complete and send a general refund petition form to:
Philadelphia Dept. of Revenue
P.O. Box 1137
Philadelphia, PA 19102
For general questions about a refund you can also email refund.unit@phila.gov
Deadlines & processing times
Refund claims must be filed with the Department of Revenue within three years from either the date of payment or the due date of the payment, whichever is later.
Appealing a refund denial
If your refund request is denied, you have the option to appeal to the Tax Review Board. There is a three-year statute of limitations for appeals.