A newly expanded property tax exemption is available to disabled veterans. Public Act 161, which went into effect Nov. 12, 2013, applies to a homestead property of a disabled veteran who was discharged from the United States armed forces under honorable conditions.
The new law defines "disabled veteran" as a person who meets one of the following criteria:
- has been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service and entitled to veterans' benefits at the 100 percent rate.
- has been rated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as individually unemployable.
- has a certificate from the United States Veterans' Administration (or its successors) certifying that the veteran has received pecuniary assistance due to disability for specially adapted housing.
This exemption is also available to the surviving, unmarried spouse of a disabled veteran who was eligible for this exemption.
Applications
It is necessary to apply for this exemption annually with the City's Assessing Department. An application is made by submitting a completed Affidavit for Disabled Veterans Exemption application (PDF) to the Assessing Department prior to the close of the City's Board of Review meeting. Exemptions may be granted at the March, July or December Board of Review. It is necessary for the applicant to submit documentation supporting the exemption request (i.e., a letter or certificate from the United States government certifying that the veteran meets one of the criteria listed above).
Veterans Frequently Asked Questions