New Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans

Good news for veterans!

On April 6, 2011 a new statute was made Virginia law, awarding a real property tax exemption for permanently service-related disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. Originally approved by voters in November 2010, this statute will positively affect an estimated 7,350 disabled veterans living in the state of Virginia, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The exemption applies to the sole dwelling and land (not more than one acre) of the veteran, but not to any vacation homes or rental properties. For most people living in the city or suburbs this will be a sufficient and appreciated break. However, if your locality exempts more than one acre under its tax relief program for the elderly, then veterans will receive this new property tax exemption for the same number of acres as allowed for the elderly.

The application is a fairly simple one-time process that does not need to be re-submitted annually, unless you move or have another change in circumstance. First, you must obtain the required disability documentation from the VA by submitting VA Form 21-4138. Second, after you have received the appropriate paperwork that proves your 100% service-related disability, download the "Disabled Veteran Exemption Application" from your county website and submit to your county’s Department of Tax Administration along with your VA documentation for approval. Lastly, once approved, make sure to alert your mortgage company (if applicable) so that they may adjust your monthly mortgage payment according to this property tax break.

The Farr Law Firm and the Elder Law Institute for Training and Education appreciates the military service of our veterans and are proud to offer a 15% discount on our Level 1 and 2 packages to all active duty, reserve and retired military members. Our Level 1 and 2 packages include incapacity protection planning documents and living trusts, as well as optional add-ons like wills and child protection plans. This is a substantial savings of up to $1000! If you’re a veteran in need of estate planning services, please contact us at 703-691-1888 to see how we can help.

Photo by Maggie Smith.