The deadline for honorably discharged veterans facing financial difficulties to file for property tax assistance is approaching, according to a press release issued by the County Treasurer’s Office and the Madison County Veteran’s Assistance Commission (VAC).
The deadline to apply is Dec. 1.
The VAC told the Record that veterans who wish to apply for property tax exemptions should first apply through their local tax assessor. The VAC helps veterans receive compensation for pension claims, enroll in the VA medical center, request medical records, and helps them obtained financial assistance.
The VAC encourages veterans who need help filing for financial assistance to schedule an appointment. Currently, the VAC provides aid and services to about 45,000 veterans across the county.
Since the inception of the property tax assistance program two years ago, the VAC has received hundreds of calls. Although not every veteran qualifies for assistance, they may qualify for other programs.
According to a press release explaining the program, to qualify, veterans must provide proof of honorable discharge from active duty with the U.S. Military, proof of ownership of property and proof of an inability to pay.
For veterans with a disability between 30 to 49 percent, the annual exemption is $2,500. For veterans with a disability between 50 to 69 percent, the annual exemption is $5,000. Veterans with more than 70 percent disability will be exempt from all property tax payments.
“This program is just another step in making sure veterans get help when they need it most,” stated VAC Superintendent Brad Lavite in the release.
In order to get help receiving property tax assistance, Veterans must contact the VAC no later than Dec. 1. The VAC can be reached at (618) 692-7040.
“Each year taxpayers must reapply for all exemptions other than the homestead exemption,” County Treasurer Kurt Prenzler said in the release. “We want to remind veterans, especially those who were injured while serving, about these and about the VAC property tax assistance program because of all they’ve done for us."