North Hempstead tax cut for Cold War-era vets

Cold War-era veterans who are residents of the Town of North Hempstead can apply to the county for a property tax exemption.

To qualify, veterans must have been honorably discharged after a least one year of active duty in any branch of the military between Sept. 2, 1945, and Dec. 26, 1991, and not already be receiving a veteran’s exemption.

The exemption was proposed by town board member Angelo Ferrara in 2008.

It applies to primary residences only and, depending on assessed value, will knock 10 to 15 percent off a resident’s general municipal taxes, which exclude school and special district taxes, said Caitlin Miller, Ferrara’s legislative aide.

Applications should be filed with the Nassau County Board of Assessors at 240 Old Country Rd. in Mineola. Proof of property ownership and residency, as well as discharge papers, are required.

To apply to 2012, applications must be filed by Jan. 2. Veterans who have already been approved do not need to reapply, Miller said.

Applications can be obtained from the county assessor or Ferrara’s office, 220 Plandome Rd. in Manhasset.

For more information, call 516-869-7775.