VASQUEZ URGES DISABLED VETS TO SEEK LARGER EXEMPTIONS
New law gives larger property tax break on homesteads; 100% for some
By Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Office
June 15, 2009 - Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Leo Vasquez urges eligible disabled veterans to apply now for the new, larger property tax exemptions on their homestead.
New legislation signed by Gov. Rick Perry provides for a total property tax exemption on the residence homestead of veterans who are receiving 100 percent disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for a service-connected disability and who have a disability rating of 100 percent or have a Department of Veterans Affairs rating of individual unemployability.
“This tax break recognizes our disabled veterans’ sacrifices in service to our nation,” Vasquez stated. “We thank our veterans for their service and encourage them to act now to sign up for the exemption, which is exceptionally valuable in this economic climate.”
The legislation also increases the amount of exemptions for veterans with disability ratings of 30, 50 or 70 percent.
The principal author of the legislation, HB 3613, was Rep. John Otto of Dayton. Several Houston-area State Representatives coauthored the bill. In the State Senate, Sen. Tommy Williams of The Woodlands was the sponsor, and Sen. Dan Patrick of Houston was a cosponsor.
“Even if you are in a hospital or nursing home, you can apply for the new exemption if you intend to return to your home when you are able,” Vasquez noted. “And, a disabled vet qualifying for the new exemption on his or her homestead is still able to use the regular disabled veteran exemption on other property they own, including business property.”
The Harris County Appraisal District has mailed a letter and an application for the new exemption to all property owners who have an existing disabled veteran’s exemption. The new exemption is retroactive to the beginning of the 2009 tax year.
If you are a disabled veteran, help care for one, or advise a disabled veteran, please see the questions and answers on the Harris County Appraisal District’s Web site at http://www.hcad.org/Resources/Veterans100percent.asp.
“This is a great benefit and the least we can do for our disabled vets. Please don’t delay!” Vasquez urged.