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RI Veterans: Did you know? 01-09-22 (Tax exemptions, legislation…) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, Department Veterans Service Officer, Italian American War Veterans (ITAM)
Starting off with a question from one of our readers:
“I brought my DD214 to Town of Tiverton Town Hall to file for the property tax exemption for Cold War veterans, however, I was told I am not eligible because I did not serve in a combat zone?” – Tim, Tiverton, RI
It appears whoever you spoke with was unaware of the passage of a bill making eligible Cold War veterans who served between 1947 and 1991. Town of Tiverton’s own website: https://www.tiverton.ri.gov.
To be eligible, you need not have served in a war zone, however, you do need to have a DD214 showing a time period of active duty from 1947 to 1991 and have received an honorable discharge.
VETTIP: Local towns and cities require a one-time application for the veteran property time exemption. Moreover, all towns and cities have a deadline date to file for the veteran exemption before the annual tax bills are compiled. For the Town of Tiverton, Jim would have needed to file by March 15 2022, for tax bills issued in July 2022.
The bills passed qualifying you as a Cold War veteran for the veteran exemption are Rhode Island House bill 2021 — S 0982 and Rhode Island Senate bill 2021 — S 0982. Governor Dan McKee signed the bills into law on July 14, 2021, extending veteran tax exemption to veterans who served during the Cold War.
VETTIP: If you are a veteran or widow, own property (house, condo, land etc.) and have a copy of DD214 supporting the veteran served on active duty from 1947 to current, more than likely you are eligible for an annual local property tax worth hundreds of dollars. Emphasis, the veteran did not have to serve overseas or in a combat zone to be eligible for the tax credit.
The bill passed in 2021 is worth hundreds to eligible veterans, if not thousands of annual savings on property tax for Cold War veterans eligible (more details on bi-partisan bill in today’s article).
Appears as you are a resident of Tiverton, that you would save $200 annually on your property tax. If you are a 100% service-connected veteran, the amount is $400 annually.
Recommend you return to the town hall with your DD214 and ask the necessary forms to apply for the veteran tax exemption. If the town’s representative continues to deny you request, contact me at (401) 677-9838, as I will contact the town to rectify the matter.
VETTIP: The Town of Bristol provides $1,000 annual tax credit for 100% disabled veterans whose disabilities are service connected ($900 for 90% VA service connected, $800 for 80% service connected).
If you live in Cranston and are a veteran rated 100% for service-connected injuries, after 5 years veteran tax credit is over $5,000
Here is a list of municipalities and the veteran tax credit offered :
Veteran Tax Credits by Municipalities*
| Town/City | Veteran Exemption | 100% Service Connected Disable/Credit | Other |
| Barrington | 300.00 | ||
| Bristol | 250.00 | 1000.00 | |
| Bristol | 250.00 | 900.00 | 90% service-connected disabled $900 credit |
| Bristol | 250.00 | 800.00 | 80% service-connected disabled $800 credit |
| Burrillville* | 225.00 | 300.00 | |
| Central Falls | 90.00 | ||
| Charlestown | 250.00 | 500.00 | |
| Coventry | 170.73 | 189.70 | |
| Cranston | 203.54 | ………………. 5,192.50 | |
| Cranston $50,000 a year aggregated for five years up to $250,000 of the real property by any disabled veteran | |||
| Cumberland | 362.29 | 716.00 | |
| East Greenwich | 110.00 | 234.30 | |
| East Providence | 168.84 | 205.90 | |
| Exeter | 68.60 | 137.20 | |
| Foster* | 15.57 | 31.44 | |
| Glocester* | 267.10 | 641.04 | |
| Hopkinton | 122.48 | 251.00 | |
| Jamestown* | 150.00 | 300.00 | |
| Johnston* | 112.16 | 245.00 | |
| Lincoln | 201.40 | 402.80 | |
| Little Compton | 107.82 | Income Based | |
| Middletown | 498.11 | 996.22 | |
| Narragansett | 209.60 | ||
| New Shoreham | 1086.87 | ||
| Newport | 219.99 | ||
| North Kingstown | 213.63 | 249.51 | |
| North Providence | 114.05 | 228.10 | |
| North Smithfield | 350.00 | ||
| Pawtucket | 220.47 | 444.42 | |
| Portsmouth | 247.15 | 328.53 | |
| Providence* | 199.92 | 400.33 | |
| Richmond | 148.77 | 521.73 | |
| Scituate | 46.10 | 100% Service Connected Disability certified by VA: 50% off real estate tax first year, 100% off real estate tax second year and thereafter | |
| Smithfield | 170.08 | ||
| South Kingstown | 215.00 | 340.00 | |
| Tiverton | 200.00 | 400.00 | |
| Warren | 175.34 | 354.14 | |
| Warwick* | 138.40 | 346.00 | |
| West Greenwich* | 50.00 | 150.00 | Partially Disabled/Service connected pro-rated |
| Westerly | 170.00 | 200.00 | |
| Woonsocket | 158.76 | 396.90 | |
| VETTIP Most municipalities in Rhode Island offer tax relief for soldiers on active duty. Additional all municipalities continue the veteran exemption for the widow or widower. *Amounts based off Department of Revenue Division of Municipal Finance report released November 2018 and updated by Italian American War Veterans of the US Assistant Veteran Service Office, August 2022. |
Did you know no two municipalities have the same veteran tax relief program, and the sums range from $46 low credit (Scituate) to highest credit of $1,086 (New Shoreham).
Did you know Scituate has the lowest veteran tax exemption, however for 100% service connected veterans collecting VA compensation offers the BEST exemption for those veterans; no real estate taxes for a house assessed under $350,000.
Did you know towns local elected officials could increase veteran property exemption by seeking assistance from district State of Rhode Island House of Representative and State Senate.
Did you know most municipalities in Rhode Island offer additional veteran tax credit, if the veteran has VA rated service-connected disabilities?
Did you know the City of Cranston provides one of the BEST veteran tax exemption for a veteran with a 100% VA service-connected disabilities, monetary value of over $5,000 after 5 years for a veteran who owns a house with an assessed value over $250,000.
Veterans Should Vote for Candidates Who Support Issues Impacting Veterans: Topic 1: RI Municipalities Veteran Tax Exemption
Why does the Town of Scituate only offer $46 credit to veterans who served and reside in Scituate, compared to bordering towns who provide from $112 to $250 veteran tax credit?
Why is the City of Cranston and the Town of Scituate provide the best veteran tax credits for veterans who were injured during his or her service.
Do residents of Scituate and Cranston appreciate veteran residents less than the residents of bordering towns like Johnston and Smithfield?
The answer is quite simple. Elected officials have the ability to initiate resolutions and legislation to send their local veterans a clear message – THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE with a tax credit – that cost residents less than a dollar annually on their taxes.
Several years ago, the elected officials of the City of Cranston took the necessary action to increase Real Estate Property Tax Exemption for disabled veterans. This action was under the leadership of Council President John E. Lanni. A resolution was passed and forwarded to the members of the Rhode Island General assembly to introduce and pass enabling legislation authorizing the City of Cranston to enact an Ordinance which would increase Exemptions from real property taxation for those who are military veterans with a hundredth percent military disability rating.
Shortly thereafter, the General Assembly submitted and passed the necessary legislation authorizing the City of Cranston to pass such an ordinance, which the City of Cranston did shortly thereafter.
From a veteran who is 100% service-connected disabled veteran, Cranston and Scituate veteran exemption for 100% rated veterans is a quality-of-life impact. If I had such tax exemption while as a single parent, I would not have had to work two additional jobs.
The impact of Cranston’s exemption, more than likely, allows a 100% disabled combat veteran the opportunity to own and afford purchasing a home for his or her family, which without the exemption, he might not have been qualified.
KUDOs to the Town of Bristol for offering additional tax exemption for the group of veterans who are 80 or 90 % VA service connected. Clearly, the leaders of the Town of Bristol understand the VA current rating system and the struggles of veterans receiving proper rating; veterans wait an average of 3 years for his or her initial rating to be reconsidered.
KUDOs to the City of Cranston, town and Scituate, and town of Bristol, three of Rhode Island’s municipalities who do more than words thanking their veterans for their service.
Veterans Remember When Voting in Primaries and General Election
The State of Rhode Island has an estimated 60,000 veterans. For sure the veterans’ vote could make the difference in any federal, state, and or local election.
Over the last year the State of Rhode Island became more veteran friendly for veterans to live because of key legislation passed in the general assembly in 2021 and 2022.
This week’s column will focus in our local and state election.
The first legislation was moderate bi-partisan legislation, 2021-H-5785, introduced in the Rhode Island House of Representatives by Representatives Vella-Wilkinson, McEntree, Noret, Solomon, Azzinaro, Kennedy, and Filippi was introduced to include local property tax exemption for Cold War veterans who served between 1947 and 1991 early January 2021.
The bill passed unanimous in the House. Below is the result of the vote:
Vote: Passage
| Vote | Tally | Democrat | Republican |
| Yea | 62 | 54 | 8 |
| Nay | – | – | – |
| Not Voting | 12 | 10 | 2 |
| Absent | 1 | 1 | – |
| TOTAL | 75 | 65 | 10 |
Result: Passed
Another key piece of legislation that has an impact to veterans and their families was the budget signed into law on July 21, 2022 by Governor Dan McKee, which exempted military pension from state income tax.
Previously Rhode Island was one of four states that did not provide a specific state income preference for military pension income.
Again, another bill with bi-partisan support saving veterans hundreds of dollars in state income tax.
For over 30 years, veteran organizations have lobbied for passage to exempt military pensions from state taxes.
On July 21, 2022, Governor McKee signed Veteran and Military-Related Legislative Package, Highlighting Budget Items Supporting Rhode Island’s Veterans and Service Members.
“Our military retirees have sacrificed so much for our country and I believe it is not only fair, but, also our moral obligation to honor their service by keeping their pension dollars in their pockets where it belongs,” Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Walter Felag said. “I am thankful that this year we finally acknowledged the brave and selfless service of our retired military men and women by allowing them to keep the benefits they so rightfully earned and deserved by serving our country and preserving our freedom.”
“Thanks to our veterans, we live in the best country in the world and I am happy that their service is being recognized and appreciated,” he continued.
KUDOs to current Governor, Speaker of House, State Senate President, and all other state representatives, state senators, and veteran organizations for their accomplishments. Moreover, special thanks to staff of Operation Stand Down who was instrumental to ensure another year did not pass without signed legislation to exempt military pensions.
In conclusion, Rhode Island must continue to pass legislation to thank the small group of veterans who served their country.
Veterans are encouraged to seek candidates’ positions on :
1. State of Rhode Island passing legislation allowing all of Rhode Island municipalities to increase veteran tax exemption.
2. State of Rhode Island pass legislation to exempt all real estate taxes for any veteran residing in the municipality who has at least 70%; VA service-connected disability
Next week’s article will cover another veteran service not provided by most municipalities for veterans, although bordering states are providing such services.
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Two events this weekend – sponsoring today’s Veterans column:
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Events
Monday, September 5, 2022, Federal Hill Coffee House, 9:00 a.m to 11:00 a.m ROMA Deli, Atwells Ave, Providence RI. All veterans and their guest are invited. Italian toast, pastries, calzones, coffee and espresso are available at no cost for attendees. The Italian American War Veteran of the US and Town of Burrillville Veteran Service Officer are available to answer and assist any veteran with any matter, to include understanding the recent PACT act passed.
Saturday-September 17 (9AM to 5PM) & Sunday-September 18th (9AM to 3PM), 20th Annual Military Vehicle Show, Canonicus Camp and Conference Center, 54 Exeter Rd. Exeter RI. For vendor information contact Bruce Ferreira (401) 651-4950. The show is sponsored by the Rhode Island Military Vehicle Collectors Club.
October 2, 2022, 7th Annual War Veterans Tribute Cruise In, RI Veteran Home, Metacom Ave, Bristol RI. Registration 9:00-12:00. One of the last and largest car show in Rhode Island. Awards at 3:00. For more information contact Joe Thompson at [email protected]
RESOURCES & ongoing groups
Below are all of the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering. As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time!
***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS) via email at [email protected]***
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May)
Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Low Impact Walking Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.
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Discounts for Veterans
Services
No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC 10% military discount , ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibity with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification
Restaurants
Applebee’s – Military Discount … With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2028
Denny’s – Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty . Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain. Last verified 07/31/2028 (PS I had breakfast there on Saturday).
Outback Steakhouse – 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021
99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID
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Retailers
Advance Auto Parts – 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021
Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source).
BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021
Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You” to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner, ID.me.
ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe.
GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through ID.me
Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer.
Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type.
Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 15% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at select locations listed below:
Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI
Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get –
1. Create an Account. Log in or create a Michaels Rewards account.
2. Get Verified. Provide your military information to get verified instantly.
3. Go Shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout.
O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21.
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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to:[email protected]: the business’s name , location, and military and veteran discount offered.
If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838)
To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/
John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.
Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.
Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, United Veterans Council of Rhode Island, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.
He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp For Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.