Saugus veterans eligible for tax exemptions

SAUGUS – Now that actual tax bills have been sent, veterans and other qualifying residents can now seek exemptions.The previous tax bills were estimated bills, which precluded requests for exemptions. But since the actual bills have gone out, the Assessors Office is now accepting applications for exemptions.Exemptions exist for certain disabled veterans as well as their spouses or surviving spouses who are honorably discharged and who meet certain residency requirements.One of the biggest changes is the exemption for qualifying spouses of veterans who died in combat on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Those spouses can apply for a full exemption for five fiscal years and then for an exemption up to $2,500 thereafter.”It’s huge,” agreed Deputy Assessor Ron Keohan. “Veterans have been abused for a long time. It’s good they did something.”Applicants must provide certification of disability from Veterans Administration to reap the $400 exemption provided for a veteran with war service connected disability of 10 percent or more, one who was awarded a Purple Heart, Gold Star mothers and fathers, spouses (where the home is owned by a veteran spouse) and surviving spouses of veterans who were entitled to the exemption. If a surviving spouse remarries, the exemption is forfeited. Lastly, a surviving spouse of a World War I veteran is also eligible as long as they remain unmarried.Veterans who permanently lost a foot, hand or eye, won the Congressional Medal of Honor or were awarded the Distinguished Service Cross or the Air Force Cross or Navy Cross are eligible for a $750 exemption.The permanent loss of two limbs or eyes during service provides for a $1,250 exemption and veterans who qualify for special adapted housing could reap a $1,500 exemption. Wartime 100 percent disabled veterans who, because of a disability are incapable of working, can apply for an exemption in the amount of $1,000. Paraplegic veterans and the surviving spouse can apply for a total exemption.According to the assessors office, there are a variety of other exemptions to reduce property tax obligations as well. Qualified elderly people, those 70 or older with limited assets, legally registered blind people regardless of assets, surviving spouse or child of a police officer or firefighter killed in the line of duty can all apply for exemptions.Also available is a tax deferral for persons 65 or older. For more information on any exemption contact the Assessing Office at 781-231-4130 or the Department of Revenue at 617-626-2300.