Hello,

Did you know you first need a Philadelphia tax clearance certificate if you're starting a new business in the city, renewing a license, or applying for City programs? Tax clearance certificates prove you're in compliance with City tax laws. In this newsletter, we're sharing a quick reminder on how to request this important document online through the Philadelphia Tax Center. But first, here's exciting news for title companies and anyone refinancing or transferring a Philadelphia property: you can now request a payoff statement online—no waiting in line or on the line. Read on to find out more.

Get a property payoff statement in minutes!

The Philadelphia Tax Center is designed to give you more control over your accounts online. Recent updates to the system make it easy for title companies or anyone looking to refinance or transfer a Philadelphia property to request a payoff statement online. The process is safe, simple, and secure.

You can use the payoff feature 24/7. No need for a username and password. You just need the property address or OPA number, and the name of the person or company requesting the statement. You also need an effective payoff statement date. Follow these steps to submit your request: 

1. Go to tax-services.phila.gov. 
2. Select “Search for a property” in the “Property” panel on the homepage.
3. Enter the property address and select "Search". The OPA number appears in the "Search results" panel on the right side of the screen. Select it to go to the next screen.
4. Pick "More options" on the "Accounts" screen. A list of options panels will appear. Find "Property Payoff" at the bottom of the screen and follow the prompts.

The system displays a statement that includes outstanding balances for Real Estate Tax, Commercial Trash Fee, and Licenses & Inspection Abatement Work Invoices. Make sure you read the statement carefully. It has a payment voucher and a breakdown of all accounts, periods, and invoices.

A payoff statement only shows property-related balances, like Real Estate Tax or Commercial Trash Fees. It doesn't include business tax debts or liens, water and sewer charges, or fines for code violations.

These statements reflect property account balances as of the effective date requested. They may include penalties and interest calculated up to 60 days in the future. They may not reflect payments made between the requested date and the effective date. Payoff quotes are valid until the effective date you choose. 

Think you might need a revised statement? Simply follow the steps discussed above to submit a new payoff request!

Request a tax clearance certificate online

Want to start a new business in Philadelphia, apply for City tax discounts, or contract with the City? You'll need a Philadelphia tax clearance certificate to prove your business has filed all required returns and paid all taxes. The Philadelphia Tax Center has a "Tax clearance" section where you can check your compliance status. It only takes a few minutes; just follow these steps:

• Find the "Tax clearance" panel at the bottom of the Tax Center’s homepage and select “Request a tax clearance certificate.”
• Make sure you read the "Warning" and select "Accept."
• Be ready to share your Federal Employer ID or Social Security Number on the "Tax clearance request" screen and follow the on-screen instructions to submit your request.

The system will give you general tax compliance information. That's because tax information is confidential. No specific details can be provided unless you're logged in or contact us by phone or email. While it's not necessary to create a username and password, it can streamline tax clearance issues. You'll have direct access to missing returns and payments once logged in.

Thank you,

 Philadelphia Department of Revenue

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