This year you may receive an extra sheet of paper with your property tax bill. Do not be alarmed, it is just a result from legislation that was enacted in 2009 through House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1344. Starting in 2010, HEA 1344 requires the tax statement to include a form that allows taxpayers to verify their residency and eligibility for the homestead deduction. In addition, this form is an extra protection to reduce homestead fraud. It is important that you fill out this form, because it allows you to continue receiving your homestead standard deduction. If you do not fill this form out you potentially could lose your homestead deduction beginning in 2013. This form is not required to be returned in person, you simply just mail it back to the provided address including the last five digits of your social security number and your driver's license number. This information will only be used to track the homestead database and to prevent fraud. By providing this information it will ensure that everyone is sharing in the property tax burden and by doing so, it will help reduce taxes for all. "You will be doing yourself a huge favor by taking the time to mail in this form," Rep. Suzanne Crouch (R-Evansville) said. "Currently, people who own several properties are applying for several homestead deductions. By filling out this form you will help put an end to the problem and thus saving yourself money." If you have any further concerns or questions, please do not hesitate contacting me at: 317-232-9769 or by going to the Department of Local Government Finance's website: http://www.in.gov/dlgf/8455.htm |
