(STATEHOUSE) September 6, 2007-State Representative Suzanne Crouch (R-Evansville) is applauding Governor Mitch Daniels today for extending the homestead credit and deduction filing deadline for Hoosier homeowners to October 15 of this year. Homeowners who file before October 15 will be eligible for the credit in 2008; however, this does not affect 2007 tax bills. Homeowners who missed the filing for 2007 bills will not receive a rebate, but will be eligible for relief in 2008. "As a former Vanderburgh county auditor, I had firsthand experience dealing with taxpayers whose tax bills were higher than they should've been because they missed the homestead credit filing deadline," said Crouch. "It is disheartening to tell taxpayers that they cannot receive what is rightfully theirs merely because they missed a deadline." House Republicans previously called for an extension of the homestead deadline to apply for 2007 and 2008 tax bills. "I am thankful that the Governor has taken this step toward alleviating the property tax burden on homeowners for their 2008 tax bills," she said. "On Organization Day, my House Republican colleagues and I will push for the homestead credit deadline to be extended-or automatic-for pay 2007 property tax bills as well. Although Governor Daniels has made an encouraging first step, we need to take every step possible to ensure long-term reform while providing immediate property tax relief." Extending the deadline requires legislative action. Legislative leaders have concurred with this extension, and the Governor expects that this action will be ratified when the legislature reconvenes for the 2008 legislative session.
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