Property Tax Exemption for Ex-Servicemen in Kerala – Complete Guide
Property tax is a mandatory charge paid by property owners to local bodies such as municipalities and panchayats. To honor the service and sacrifice of military personnel, the Government of Kerala provides property tax exemption and concessions for ex-servicemen under specific conditions.
This article explains who is eligible, how much exemption is available, required documents, and the application process in an easy-to-understand way.
Understanding Property Tax Exemption Benefits for Ex-Servicemen in Kerala
Property tax exemption for ex-servicemen in Kerala is a government welfare benefit that reduces or fully waives property tax on residential houses owned by retired defense personnel.
The exemption is granted by local self-government institutions (Municipality, Corporation, or Gram Panchayat) as per Kerala government rules.
Who Is Considered an Ex-Serviceman?
An ex-serviceman is a person who has:
- Served in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force
- Been honorably discharged or retired
- Received an Ex-Serviceman Identity Card from the Zilla Sainik Welfare Office
Property Tax Exemption Rules in Kerala for Ex-Servicemen
The exemption depends on property type, usage, and ownership.
1. Type of Property
✔ Only self-occupied residential houses are eligible
❌ Commercial buildings are not exempt
2. Ownership Condition
✔ The property must be owned by the ex-serviceman
✔ Joint ownership with spouse is usually allowed
❌ Rented or leased properties are not eligible
3. Extent of Exemption
- 100% exemption for eligible ex-servicemen (in many panchayats)
- Some municipalities provide partial exemption or rebate
- Rules may vary slightly between local bodies
4. Family Members
- Widows of ex-servicemen are also eligible
- In case of death, benefits can continue if the property remains residential
Documents Required for Property Tax Exemption
To apply for exemption, the following documents are generally required:
- Ex-Serviceman Identity Card
- Discharge Certificate / Pension Certificate
- Property Tax Receipt
- Ownership Proof (Sale Deed / Possession Certificate)
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card or Address Proof
- Application Form from Local Body
How to Apply for Property Tax Exemption in Kerala
Offline Method (Most Common)
- Visit your local Panchayat / Municipality Office
- Collect the property tax exemption application form
- Attach required documents
- Submit the application to the Secretary
- Verification will be done by local officials
- Exemption is approved and updated in tax records
Online Method (Where Available)
Some local bodies allow applications through:
- Kerala Local Self Government (LSG) portal
- Sanchaya property tax system
Steps:
- Log in to the portal
- Select property tax services
- Apply for exemption under welfare category
- Upload documents
- Track application status online
Is Property Tax Fully Free for Ex-Servicemen in Kerala?
✔ Yes, in many rural panchayats
❌ In some urban areas, only rebate or partial exemption is provided
The final decision depends on:
- Local body rules
- Property size
- Government notifications
Important Points to Remember
- Exemption applies only to one residential property
- Annual renewal or verification may be required
- False claims can lead to penalties
- Always keep exemption approval copy safely
Benefits of Property Tax Exemption for Ex-Servicemen
✔ Reduces financial burden after retirement
✔ Recognizes service to the nation
✔ Helps senior citizens manage living expenses
✔ Promotes social security and dignity
Conclusion
The property tax exemption for ex-servicemen in Kerala is an important welfare measure that provides financial relief and honors military service. If you are an eligible ex-serviceman or family member, applying for this benefit can significantly reduce your annual expenses.
Always verify the latest rules with your local body to ensure smooth approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
By submitting an application with required documents to the local Panchayat or Municipality. Some areas also allow online submission.
Ex-serviceman ID, discharge or pension certificate, property ownership proof, Aadhaar, and latest tax receipt.
Yes, selected local bodies allow applications and tracking through Kerala LSG and Sanchaya portals.
Kerala Local Self Government (LSG) portal and the Sanchaya property tax system.
Usually, exemption is mainly for retired personnel, but some local bodies may offer concessions.
No. Exemption is allowed for only one self-occupied house.
No. You must apply and get approval from the local authority.
Yes, but implementation varies by municipality or panchayat.
Read Also:- Property Tax Benefits for Ex-Servicemen in India: Eligibility, Rules, and How to Apply
