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Michigan Real Estate Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans

Update 8/26//14 – The Michigan State Tax Commission has published a new document titled P.A. 161 of 2013: Disabled Veterans Exemption – Frequently Asked Questions, which is a comprehensive guide to the timing of when disabled veteran’s are allowed to claim the exemption.

The State of Michigan recently passed a law allowing for disabled veterans who were honorably discharged to apply for an exemption from real estate property taxes. In order to qualify, the veteran must meet one of the following three criteria:

(a) Has been determined by the United States Department of Veterans’ Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service and entitled to veterans’ benefits at the 100% rate.

(b) Has a certificate from the United States Veterans’ Administration, or its successors, certifying that he or she is receiving or has received pecuniary assistance due to disability for specially adapted housing.

(c) Has been rated by the United States Department of Veterans’ Affairs as individually unemployable.

There is no asset or means test to determine eligibility for the exemption, but the exemption must be applied for annually. The State of Michigan State Tax Commission will be providing an affidavit form for disabled veterans to file with their local assessor.

If you have any questions about the new exemption criteria or affidavit form, please contact attorney Adam Zuwerink at 231-457-4235 or adam@westmichiganlaw.com