The deadline for disabled veterans applying for a property tax exemption is quickly approaching.

At Monday’s meeting of the Niles Charter Township board of trustees, Treasurer Jim Ringler said veterans have until Dec. 10 to become certified for the exemption.

He said there are 54 veterans in Niles Township possibly eligible.

“We have to let these people know about this so they can take advantage of it,” he said.

Senate Bill 352, which was approved by the governor in mid-November, allows Michigan veterans meeting certain qualifications to receive a tax exemption on their primary residence.

A veteran who thinks they may be eligible needs to meet one of the following qualifications:

• Rated by the VA as being permanently and totally disabled as the result of military service

• Individual un-employability rating

• Specially adapted housing grant rating

• Surviving spouse, not remarried, of an eligible veteran

Anyone who thinks they meet one of the above requirements should contact Lee Lull, Berrien County Veterans Administrator, at (269) 983-7111 ext. 8118 for additional information or to set up an appointment.

Once the status and qualifications have been confirmed, Lee will notify the assessor at the local government unit with a signed affidavit and certificate of eligibility. This information will be presented to the December Board of Review on Dec. 10.

Once approval has been received, the exemption will be applied to the 2013 and 2014 tax years. Every year thereafter will require a new approve affidavit.