FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: County Approves 100 Percent Property Tax Exemption for Qualifying Veterans

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: County Approves 100 Percent Property Tax Exemption for Qualifying Veterans

FONDA, N.Y.- Veteran and resident Dave Mitchell spent his birthday advocating for the passage of a local law that would offer tax relief for totally disabled veterans. Without even blowing out the candles to celebrate his 75th birthday, his wish came true.

The Montgomery County Legislature has approved a local law establishing a 100% property tax exemption on the County portion of property taxes for qualifying veterans who are considered permanently and totally disabled due to their military service.

"This exemption applies to a very small and narrowly defined group of veterans. For those who qualify, however, it would make an enormous difference, particularly as we grow older and try to remain in the homes and communities we fought to come back to," Mitchell said during public comment.

New York Real Property Tax Law §458-a (11) authorizes counties, cities, towns, villages and school districts to adopt a local law or resolution providing a full exemption for the primary residence of qualifying veterans who meet the requirements of the law, including being considered permanently and totally disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a result of military service.

The exemption is separate from a veteran's disability percentage. To qualify, a veteran must have documentation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs specifically stating that the veteran is considered permanently and totally disabled because of military service.

"I applaud our Legislators for moving this resolution forward," County Executive Pete Vroman said. "It's hard to ever repay the sacrifices these men and women have made for our country. They put their lives on the line to defend our freedom, and this is one small way we can show our appreciation and provide some relief to those who have given so much in service to our country."

Montgomery County Legislature Chairman Michael J. Pepe said the Legislature's action provides another way for the County to support veterans who have served.

"Our veterans have given a great deal in service to our country, and it's important that we continue to look for ways to support them when they come home," Pepe said. "As a Legislature and as a community, we have a responsibility to recognize that service. This exemption gives us an opportunity to provide meaningful tax relief to those who are totally disabled and have sacrificed so much for our country."

Director of the Montgomery County Real Property Tax Service Agency Christine DePasquale, encouraged veterans to contact their local assessor with questions about eligibility and the application process.

"The most important thing for eligible veterans to know is that they need to apply with their assessor by the applicable deadline," DePasquale said. "Our office is available to help provide information and direct veterans to the appropriate assessor."

For City of Amsterdam residents, applications for the exemption must be submitted to the City Assessor by Dec. 1, 2026. All other Montgomery County residents must submit applications to their town assessor by March 1, 2027.

The exemption approved by Montgomery County applies to County taxes only. Towns, villages, and school districts will have to separately adopt the exemption if they wish to provide the benefit against their respective tax levies.

Veterans with questions about the exemption or the application process should contact the Montgomery County Real Property Tax Service Agency or their local assessor.

"For the veterans who qualify, this is more than another adjustment to an exemption cap. It is recognition of a permanent sacrifice that began when we raised our hands and agreed to serve," Mitchell said.

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