Indiana veterans' property tax benefits changing; some must reapply by Dec. 31

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Changes to Indiana's property tax benefits for veterans could affect disabled veterans across St. Joseph County.

The St. Joseph County's Auditor's Office held an event September 16 at the Francis Branch Library to help veterans understand these changes and what they need to do to continue receiving their benefits.

"If you have an assessed value on your house of 100,000 and 100 percent disabled, our deduction will be 100,000, which is huge," Abby Doyle says. "But in order to get that benefit, even if you're currently receiving it, you have to reapply."

Doyle, the St. Joseph County Chief Deputy Officer says this is a "Huge win for disabled veterans because the deduction is now higher," but many veterans don't know about these changes.

Other changes include a property tax credit of up to $350 for veterans with a service-connected disability. Veterans who are at least 62 years old and have at least 10 percent disability may qualify for a credit of up to $250.

Doyle also says that the auditor's office doesn't have a communication system that will notify all disabled veterans of this change, so every disabled veteran must reapply.

Those who want more information can reach out to St. Joseph County Auditor's Office for more assistance.