How to apply for Connecticut Additional Veterans' Exemption (Income-Based)

Who it's for

Connecticut veterans who already get a veterans' or disabled veterans' property tax exemption can get a bigger one if their income is under the state limit. Instead of the automatic extra half, the extra amount becomes double the basic exemption. For a wartime veteran, that means at least $3,000 off the assessed value instead of $1,500. For the 2026 filing, 2025 income must be no more than $46,300 if unmarried or $56,500 if married. VA disability pay does not count as income. A surviving spouse can qualify too. Apply on Form M-59a at your town assessor's office between February 1 and October 1, and reapply every two years. Some towns also offer their own extra veterans' exemption with higher income limits.

What you'll need

• Form M-59a (Additional Veterans' Exemption application), filed with your town assessor
• A copy of your federal income tax return, or other proof of income if you do not file one
• DD-214 recorded with the town clerk (needed for the basic exemption)
• VA rating letter, if claiming as a disabled veteran

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Connecticut Additional Veterans' Exemption (Income-Based). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need form M-59a (Additional Veterans' Exemption application), filed with your town assessor, a copy of your federal income tax return, or other proof of income if you do not file one, dD-214 recorded with the town clerk (needed for the basic exemption) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Make sure you already qualify for a Connecticut veterans' or disabled veterans' property tax exemption. This extra exemption is only for people who already get that basic exemption.
2. Check your income rules before you apply. For the 2026 filing, 2025 income must be no more than $46,300 if unmarried or $56,500 if married. Income counts nearly everything, including Social Security, but not VA disability pay. If you have a 100% VA rating, a different rule applies: only adjusted gross income counts, with a limit of $18,000 if unmarried or $21,000 if married.
3. Gather your documents. Get Form M-59a, a copy of your federal income tax return or other proof of income if you do not file one, and your VA rating letter if you are claiming as a disabled veteran. Make sure your DD-214 is recorded with the town clerk for the basic exemption.
4. Apply with your town assessor between February 1 and October 1. File Form M-59a and the needed documents with the assessor's office.
5. Contact your town assessor if you need help with the process or want to ask how to apply online or by phone. You can also call 860-418-6406 for information.
6. Reapply every two years to keep the exemption if you still qualify.

What to expect: After you apply, your town assessor reviews your Form M-59a, income proof, and any veteran status records to decide if you qualify. Processing times vary, so ask the assessor for an estimate. If approved, the extra exemption increases the amount off your assessed value. A surviving spouse may also qualify. Veterans who get the full 100% permanent and total exemption cannot also get this one, and you must refile every two years.

Renewals

every two years (biennial refiling)