Instructions For Rct-127a Returns (Page 2 of 2) in pdf

Instructions for RCT-127A Returns

RCT-127A-I (01-13)

Page 2 of 2

Step One - Registering to use the system

Each utility official desiring to use the PURTA online system must first register at

• Identify the utility. Multiple parties from the same utility may have access, but they must obtain individual accounts.

• Choose a User ID and Password, each between four and 10 characters in length. Do not disclose these to anyone.

• Complete the registration form by providing an employer identification number (EIN) and contact information including email

address, mailing address, telephone number and fax number. Contact information may be updated as necessary.

• Sign and date, then print the registration and make a copy for your records. You may fax the registration to 717-783-5432,

ATTN: PURTA-UTILITY, or mail it to the following address:

PA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE

PURTA UNIT

PO BOX 280704

HARRISBURG PA 17128-0704

• After you receive department approval of your registration, you may begin using the system.

Step Two - Reviewing PURTA data

The PURTA system provides search capabilities so each registered user may obtain general information on PURTA parcels, take a detailed

look at specific parcel records associated with the user and see analysis of changes in parcels from the prior tax year. Users may down-

load data from any of these searches for comparison with their own records.

• General Search. Users may select and view PURTA parcel records by county and utility owner. The search provides parcel num-

ber, utility and assessed value, and these records can be sorted by utility, county, school district and municipality.

• Detailed Search. More detailed information on parcels owned by a utility is available to a registered owner associated with that

utility. This query permits an official to request records for a selected local taxing authority (county, municipality and/or school

district) and PURTA tax year. Queries can be further refined by searching part of the parcel number or setting a dollar range for

assessed value.

• Changes from Prior Year. A user selecting this query will receive a report for that user’s utility of parcel database differences

among the current and prior tax years. Newly added parcels, parcels that were removed and parcels with changes in assessed value

are listed on this report.

Questions on Ownership and Assessed Values

The accuracy of the PURTA system depends upon communications between the utilities that own the PURTA parcels and the

counties responsible for keeping the real estate records. Utilities must resolve questions regarding ownership and assessed

values with local county tax authorities. The PURTA database contains information provided to the Department of Revenue by

each county. Suspected error in county information must be resolved with that county. The county must then provide the

Department of Revenue with corrected information, when appropriate.

CONTACT INFORMATION

To make electronic payments and file extensions electronically, visit e-TIDES at For additional

information and assistance with electronic payment and filing options, call 717-783-6277.

To confirm account payments, call 1-888-PATAXES.

If you have questions regarding payments, call the Accounting Division at 717-705-6225.

Requests for transfer of credit may be faxed to the Accounting Division at 717-705-6227.

If you have questions regarding tax determinations, assessments or filing requirements, call the PURTA Unit at

717-783-6031. Select option 7, then option 3.

Instructions For Rct-127a Returns Page 2