To contact us Click HERE
From HumaneSociety.com
So, you've decided to get a dog. You're prepared to feed, exercise, train, clean up after, work through problems with, and love a dog every day for the next 10 to 20 years.
You've evaluated your lifestyle and know exactly what sort of dog you're looking for (e.g., a high energy dog to go running with, or a more sedate dog to lounge on the couch with), and you know that you need to seek out your desired characteristics in an individual dog, not a breed, because a breed is no guarantee of temperament or likes and dislikes.
Start at a shelter or rescue group
One in every four dogs in animal shelters in the United States is a purebred, and mixed breed dogs also make great pets, so start your search there. Not only are you likely to find a great dog, you'll also feel great about helping a homeless dog find a loving home. Most dogs lose their homes because of "people" reasons, such as cost, lack of time, lifestyle changes (new baby, divorce, moving, or marriage), or allergies, and not because of something the dog has done.
Say you've checked out the purebred rescue group for your breed, but still haven't found "The One." You don't want to buy a puppy from a pet store because you know that most of those puppies come from mass breeding facilities—better known as puppy mills.
In the end, if you've decided to buy a dog from a breeder, you'll want to support one who has their dogs' best interests at heart.
How to ID a reputable breeder
Good breeders don't sell their puppies to the first person who shows up with cash in hand. Too often, unsuspecting people buy puppies from puppy mills, or sometimes neighbors who breed their dog to make a little money or simply because they have a dog "with papers". Too often, the result is puppies in poor health or with temperament problems that may not be discovered right away.
A dog who has genetic health problems due to poor breeding practices or who develops significant behavior problems due to a lack of early socialization can cost thousands of dollars to treat—and result in grief and heartache as well.
Avoid the pitfalls
Download our "How to Identify a Good Dog Breeder" [PDF] checklist and take it with you as you visit different breeders. If the breeder you're working with doesn't meet all of the minimum criteria listed, The Humane Society of the United States advises you to walk away. Remember, your dog will likely live 10 to 20 years, so it's well worth investing some time now to be sure you're working with a reputable breeder who breeds healthy, happy dogs and keeps them in clean and humane conditions.
Get a referral
You can find reputable breeders by asking for referrals from your veterinarian or trusted friends, by contacting local breed clubs, or visiting professional dog shows. Remember, a reputable breeder will never sell her dogs through a pet store or in any other way that does not allow her to thoroughly meet with and interview you to ensure that the puppy is a good match for your family and that you will provide a responsible lifelong home.
Always visit where they were born and raised
Always personally visit a breeder's facility before buying a puppy. Find out where your puppy was born and raised. Take the time now to find the right breeder and you'll thank yourself for the rest of your dog's life.
26 Eylül 2012 Çarşamba
How to Buy Original Artwork
To contact us Click HERE
Articlebase.com
Okay, so you want to buy original art, but you scared that you will end up spending a fortune on something that is essentially worthless junk. It is possible that you could become a victim of a fraud if you do not have some knowledge about Art and do not how to tell an original piece of art from a fake. You need to invest some time in order to learn some useful tips that will help you avoid these situations.
So is most of the word. But the only way to succeed in the art business is to research and take a chance. Learning the art terms, being able to depict original art from reproduced prints, and getting the best deals is an art itself, and like anything else, you have to acquire the abilities to succeed—all of which can be learned.
Pointing out an original art piece among hundreds of reprints is like, well, for lack of a better term, picking a needle from a haystack. To successfully buy art, one must learn to do this, no matter how tedious and scary it seems. One way to do this is research. And research. And research some more. And then all over again until you think you have found some reliable resources that precisely tell you (not in the fine text) what art is original, and which is not.
Once you are more confident that you've found truthful sources, it is then time to decide on your taste preference, and what style/type/medium of art you would like to collect. Oh, and here's that word again: research. A buyer needs to know all the spiffy words and phrases related to art so that when searching for those perfect pieces, you know what to ask for (and keep yourself from seeming like a novice). Also, consider the price range you would like to stay in, that way you can keep yourself from ‘breaking the bank' or splurging on something when you do not have to.
Okay, after some more research (No, I'm not kidding), the buyer can make a selection on what art he/she wishes to buy. The tools to being successful once finding reliable vendors are: Checking for quality, a COA (certificate of authenticity), and bargaining. Like when shopping for cars, you always bargain with the salesman, right? Why not for art? You do want to get the best price possible. Maybe you could even take the route of having the piece appraised to make sure you're not paying double. And then more research, just to make sure the piece of art you select it truly an original art piece.
Finally, conclude the purchase! All original art fluctuates in price over time, and the buyer should keep up-to date on this, and not accidentally sell the piece for lower than you should (if you eventually want to sell it).
So take these skills, never forget them, and then research some more, and you can make the art of buying art an extremely enjoyable hobby.
Okay, so you want to buy original art, but you scared that you will end up spending a fortune on something that is essentially worthless junk. It is possible that you could become a victim of a fraud if you do not have some knowledge about Art and do not how to tell an original piece of art from a fake. You need to invest some time in order to learn some useful tips that will help you avoid these situations.
So is most of the word. But the only way to succeed in the art business is to research and take a chance. Learning the art terms, being able to depict original art from reproduced prints, and getting the best deals is an art itself, and like anything else, you have to acquire the abilities to succeed—all of which can be learned.
Pointing out an original art piece among hundreds of reprints is like, well, for lack of a better term, picking a needle from a haystack. To successfully buy art, one must learn to do this, no matter how tedious and scary it seems. One way to do this is research. And research. And research some more. And then all over again until you think you have found some reliable resources that precisely tell you (not in the fine text) what art is original, and which is not.
Once you are more confident that you've found truthful sources, it is then time to decide on your taste preference, and what style/type/medium of art you would like to collect. Oh, and here's that word again: research. A buyer needs to know all the spiffy words and phrases related to art so that when searching for those perfect pieces, you know what to ask for (and keep yourself from seeming like a novice). Also, consider the price range you would like to stay in, that way you can keep yourself from ‘breaking the bank' or splurging on something when you do not have to.
Okay, after some more research (No, I'm not kidding), the buyer can make a selection on what art he/she wishes to buy. The tools to being successful once finding reliable vendors are: Checking for quality, a COA (certificate of authenticity), and bargaining. Like when shopping for cars, you always bargain with the salesman, right? Why not for art? You do want to get the best price possible. Maybe you could even take the route of having the piece appraised to make sure you're not paying double. And then more research, just to make sure the piece of art you select it truly an original art piece.
Finally, conclude the purchase! All original art fluctuates in price over time, and the buyer should keep up-to date on this, and not accidentally sell the piece for lower than you should (if you eventually want to sell it).
So take these skills, never forget them, and then research some more, and you can make the art of buying art an extremely enjoyable hobby.
Is Juice a Problem for Children's teeth?
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By Dr. Scott Thompson, DDS - Winning With Smiles
For over 2 generations now juice has been espoused as a health food. Though dentists have been aware for decades this is not really true, it has not been until very recently that the health industry and the medical establishment has taken a closer look at juice. It is definitely not a health food. The question arises if it is even healthy!
Juice now sits on the top of the list as a probable causative agent for the medical chronic disease pandemic facing our children; namely diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis, among others. The journals of the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics have in recent years recommended that juice be avoided in an infant’s diet. They also recommend that if it is introduced to a toddler that it be limited to 6 oz. daily (a small glass) and consumed with a meal.
Juice is at the top of the list of causative agents for dental disease for our children and youth. For that matter, in today’s culture it probably is equally at cause for adult dental decay.
Juice is worse than soda! That doesn’t mean soda is good; it is also terrible for teeth and health. But, juice is worse. If you look at nutrition data for foods and compare juice with whole fruit, you quickly see what is lost when juice is squeezed from fruit. A couple highlights:
You do get water and calories; i.e., an 8 oz glass of orange juice has the calories squeezed from about 5 oranges. Who ever heard of eating 5 oranges in one sitting? And today we often do this at breakfast and again in the afternoon. Yikes… all those empty calories!
Lost with the fruit when we make juice is a) nearly all the vitamins except some of the water soluble vitamin C, b) insoluble fiber, roughage, c) soluble fiber, unique to fruit and an important aid in digestion, d) and minerals, key components to our enzyme systems that process our body functions. Without the minerals the enzymes cannot use the calories we consume so the calories get stored as fat.
Rarely mentioned about juice is the acid. Acid that will dissolve your teeth. Those of us that took analytical and organic chemistry in college know the issue here. Though organic acids are often called “weak” acids, they are far more effective in organic systems like mouths because of their sustaining power. They don’t register in the pH scale as strong (lower number) as inorganic acids because they hold their acid potential in “reserve.” As the acid is used (dissolving calcium out of teeth) the reserve releases more acid out of solution. This is part of the steady state (homeostasis) systems that sustain organic (life supporting) systems. When misused (juice rather than fruit) the power released can be devastating. It turns out the acid potential (titrateable acid) of juice is nearly twice that of colas!
So put juice at the very top of the destructive beverage list that includes: juice, sports drinks like Gatorade, sodas, juicers and sweet energy teas.
By Dr. Scott Thompson, DDS - Winning With Smiles
For over 2 generations now juice has been espoused as a health food. Though dentists have been aware for decades this is not really true, it has not been until very recently that the health industry and the medical establishment has taken a closer look at juice. It is definitely not a health food. The question arises if it is even healthy!Juice now sits on the top of the list as a probable causative agent for the medical chronic disease pandemic facing our children; namely diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis, among others. The journals of the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics have in recent years recommended that juice be avoided in an infant’s diet. They also recommend that if it is introduced to a toddler that it be limited to 6 oz. daily (a small glass) and consumed with a meal.
Juice is at the top of the list of causative agents for dental disease for our children and youth. For that matter, in today’s culture it probably is equally at cause for adult dental decay.
Juice is worse than soda! That doesn’t mean soda is good; it is also terrible for teeth and health. But, juice is worse. If you look at nutrition data for foods and compare juice with whole fruit, you quickly see what is lost when juice is squeezed from fruit. A couple highlights:
You do get water and calories; i.e., an 8 oz glass of orange juice has the calories squeezed from about 5 oranges. Who ever heard of eating 5 oranges in one sitting? And today we often do this at breakfast and again in the afternoon. Yikes… all those empty calories!
Lost with the fruit when we make juice is a) nearly all the vitamins except some of the water soluble vitamin C, b) insoluble fiber, roughage, c) soluble fiber, unique to fruit and an important aid in digestion, d) and minerals, key components to our enzyme systems that process our body functions. Without the minerals the enzymes cannot use the calories we consume so the calories get stored as fat.
Rarely mentioned about juice is the acid. Acid that will dissolve your teeth. Those of us that took analytical and organic chemistry in college know the issue here. Though organic acids are often called “weak” acids, they are far more effective in organic systems like mouths because of their sustaining power. They don’t register in the pH scale as strong (lower number) as inorganic acids because they hold their acid potential in “reserve.” As the acid is used (dissolving calcium out of teeth) the reserve releases more acid out of solution. This is part of the steady state (homeostasis) systems that sustain organic (life supporting) systems. When misused (juice rather than fruit) the power released can be devastating. It turns out the acid potential (titrateable acid) of juice is nearly twice that of colas!
So put juice at the very top of the destructive beverage list that includes: juice, sports drinks like Gatorade, sodas, juicers and sweet energy teas.
Practice Giving: It's Good for Your Health
To contact us Click HERE
By Ashlei Jackson, Qlixite
The definition of “charity” is the practice of benevolent giving, giving without payment or expectation of a direct return. In light of the efforts being made all around the world to help the people of Haiti, the word charity is everywhere. We often find ourselves helpless or listing reasons why we have nothing to give. However, the act of giving to others is actually healthy for you and it is the one thing you can do that will always benefit you and the ones you love. Best of all you don’t need to put a monetary value to your charity. Small acts of giving go a long way. Since the definition said that we should “practice” charity...and we all resolved to get healthier in 2010...let’s start!
Cultivate Your Mind: You will need to set aside time for yourself on a regular basis. By taking time out of every day to focus on your own needs, you will be more prepared and able to give more to others. In order to continue learning and entertain your brain on a daily basis, you should make a list of all the things you would like learn more about. Sit down and list it all at once or gradually add to the lis throughout the year. Either way, you can continue checking off items on the list as you complete them and it will give you a sense of accomplishment. Ideas: Read one book a month. Schedule time for conversations with your spouse or friend on a current topics. Help your kids with their homework...even that subject you despise. Or better yet ask them about what they learned that day. You’ll connect and possibly learn something new.
Stretch Your Body: One of the best ways to spend the time you have set aside for yourself is to improve your physical health through exercise. You don’t need to do strenuous exercise every day, but you should stretch and get your heart rate moving. This will help reduce stress, keep your body in good shape and even help you sleep better at night. Ideas: Take a walk outside, the view is better than on the treadmill. Take a yoga or couples dance class. Stop at points during your day and just take 5-10 deep breaths. Use the stairs or park in the farthest point of the lot. The more you move, the better you’ll feel.
Give of Your Soul: The most rewarding way to work on your overall health and happiness is to do things that are good for your soul. These are the types of activities that require you set aside time to focus on and give to others - but remember; giving is healthy for you too. It helps you grow your relationships with others, feel fulfilled and show how much you care. One of the easiest ways to give to others is to spend time with them. It often doesn’t cost anything but it can be more rewarding and appreciated than anything you do. And the receivers can be anyone from your kids or parents to the homeless and needy. Ideas: Volunteer. This is a broad concept. Get involved with local organizations and share your ideas. You have skills that can help people around you. Organize a family reunion or special event that brings people together. Get involved with a Church or Spiritual group. Foster a pet. It doesn’t matter if you’re 5, 50 or 85 years old, you always have something to give. Let your mind wander on how you can help others and the opportunities will appear.
Expand your Heart: Mother Theresa is quoted saying “We cannot do great things on this Earth, only small things with great love.” We’re always too busy or too broke to do things on a grand scale so keep it small. Expand the amount of love you have for the people in your life and your problems will seem smaller and less tragic. Ideas: Write a small note to each of the people you work with telling them how much you appreciate them. Look people in the eye and thank them. Smiles are contagious (apparently so are butterfly stickers in this town) so spread them. Valentines Day is coming so follow the youth example and buy a silly box of valentines for everyone you know.
There is a reason the definition of charity is the “practice” of giving versus the “act” of giving. It was Aristotle who said, “We are what we repeatedly do, excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”
The definition of “charity” is the practice of benevolent giving, giving without payment or expectation of a direct return. In light of the efforts being made all around the world to help the people of Haiti, the word charity is everywhere. We often find ourselves helpless or listing reasons why we have nothing to give. However, the act of giving to others is actually healthy for you and it is the one thing you can do that will always benefit you and the ones you love. Best of all you don’t need to put a monetary value to your charity. Small acts of giving go a long way. Since the definition said that we should “practice” charity...and we all resolved to get healthier in 2010...let’s start! Cultivate Your Mind: You will need to set aside time for yourself on a regular basis. By taking time out of every day to focus on your own needs, you will be more prepared and able to give more to others. In order to continue learning and entertain your brain on a daily basis, you should make a list of all the things you would like learn more about. Sit down and list it all at once or gradually add to the lis throughout the year. Either way, you can continue checking off items on the list as you complete them and it will give you a sense of accomplishment. Ideas: Read one book a month. Schedule time for conversations with your spouse or friend on a current topics. Help your kids with their homework...even that subject you despise. Or better yet ask them about what they learned that day. You’ll connect and possibly learn something new.
Stretch Your Body: One of the best ways to spend the time you have set aside for yourself is to improve your physical health through exercise. You don’t need to do strenuous exercise every day, but you should stretch and get your heart rate moving. This will help reduce stress, keep your body in good shape and even help you sleep better at night. Ideas: Take a walk outside, the view is better than on the treadmill. Take a yoga or couples dance class. Stop at points during your day and just take 5-10 deep breaths. Use the stairs or park in the farthest point of the lot. The more you move, the better you’ll feel.
Give of Your Soul: The most rewarding way to work on your overall health and happiness is to do things that are good for your soul. These are the types of activities that require you set aside time to focus on and give to others - but remember; giving is healthy for you too. It helps you grow your relationships with others, feel fulfilled and show how much you care. One of the easiest ways to give to others is to spend time with them. It often doesn’t cost anything but it can be more rewarding and appreciated than anything you do. And the receivers can be anyone from your kids or parents to the homeless and needy. Ideas: Volunteer. This is a broad concept. Get involved with local organizations and share your ideas. You have skills that can help people around you. Organize a family reunion or special event that brings people together. Get involved with a Church or Spiritual group. Foster a pet. It doesn’t matter if you’re 5, 50 or 85 years old, you always have something to give. Let your mind wander on how you can help others and the opportunities will appear.
Expand your Heart: Mother Theresa is quoted saying “We cannot do great things on this Earth, only small things with great love.” We’re always too busy or too broke to do things on a grand scale so keep it small. Expand the amount of love you have for the people in your life and your problems will seem smaller and less tragic. Ideas: Write a small note to each of the people you work with telling them how much you appreciate them. Look people in the eye and thank them. Smiles are contagious (apparently so are butterfly stickers in this town) so spread them. Valentines Day is coming so follow the youth example and buy a silly box of valentines for everyone you know.
There is a reason the definition of charity is the “practice” of giving versus the “act” of giving. It was Aristotle who said, “We are what we repeatedly do, excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”
Sleep - It's Good For Your Health!
To contact us Click HERE
By Dr. Randall Hensley, D.C., Hensley Chiropractic
Do you sleep like a baby?...awake every two hours, hungry and needing to use the bathroom? Or are you blessed with the ability to fall asleep the minute your head hits the pillow, sleep all night, and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go? If you are in the later group, good for you. And I mean, good for you! Sleep is very important in maintaining your health and recovering from illness. Sleep allows your body the down time it needs to replenish, rebuild, and remove stress from your systems. If you are not sleeping well consider the following recommendations for a good night's rest. Remember everyone's sleep solutions differ so finding your perfect remedy is unique to you. Try one or all of them!
In addition to the typical remedies such as avoiding caffeine, sipping chamomile tea, or counting sheep, there are many other factors that can affect your sleep quality and duration. For example having a mattress and pillow that suits your particular preference is very important. If you wake up less than “bright-eyed and bushy-tailed” check your bed. As a rule of thumb if you sleep better at a hotel, your in-laws, or when camping...it's likely your bed. You should also be sure to go to bed and wake up at the same time, even on weekends. This builds consistency in your sleep-wake cycle. This “circadian rhythm” is set by your pituitary gland deep in your brain and is triggered by light entering your eyes. Therefore, be sure to sleep in a dark room and then let bright light or better yet let sunshine greet you in the morning.
Other hints include:
Overall, once you find your “perfect” combination of bedding, environment, preparation, timing, mental attitude toward sleep, and professional help, be consistent and don't give up. Soon that biological clock will chime in rhythm with the clock on the nightstand. Sweet dreams and sleep well.
Do you sleep like a baby?...awake every two hours, hungry and needing to use the bathroom? Or are you blessed with the ability to fall asleep the minute your head hits the pillow, sleep all night, and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go? If you are in the later group, good for you. And I mean, good for you! Sleep is very important in maintaining your health and recovering from illness. Sleep allows your body the down time it needs to replenish, rebuild, and remove stress from your systems. If you are not sleeping well consider the following recommendations for a good night's rest. Remember everyone's sleep solutions differ so finding your perfect remedy is unique to you. Try one or all of them!
In addition to the typical remedies such as avoiding caffeine, sipping chamomile tea, or counting sheep, there are many other factors that can affect your sleep quality and duration. For example having a mattress and pillow that suits your particular preference is very important. If you wake up less than “bright-eyed and bushy-tailed” check your bed. As a rule of thumb if you sleep better at a hotel, your in-laws, or when camping...it's likely your bed. You should also be sure to go to bed and wake up at the same time, even on weekends. This builds consistency in your sleep-wake cycle. This “circadian rhythm” is set by your pituitary gland deep in your brain and is triggered by light entering your eyes. Therefore, be sure to sleep in a dark room and then let bright light or better yet let sunshine greet you in the morning.
Other hints include:
- making your room colder and avoiding hot baths just prior to retiring. (for some overheating the body delays sleep),
- take a daily “power nap” for 20 minutes just after lunch,
- participate in moderate exercise earlier in the day to promote physical tiredness,
- eat healthy, drink plenty of water, cut back on late night snacks such as ice cream,
- don't play video games or watch overly stimulating or stressful television (news/horror/etc),
- quit smoking, and don't drink alcohol before bed.
- use a “white-noise” machine to block out sleep-disturbing noises.
- Always try to find ways to lower your emotional stress and learn the not-so-simple act of relaxing.
- If your brain is racing, keep a paper and pen next to your bed to write down those “must-remember-to-do-tomorrow” notes or “must-not-forget-brilliant-ideas” so your subconscious brain can rest easy.
Overall, once you find your “perfect” combination of bedding, environment, preparation, timing, mental attitude toward sleep, and professional help, be consistent and don't give up. Soon that biological clock will chime in rhythm with the clock on the nightstand. Sweet dreams and sleep well.
25 Eylül 2012 Salı
Editorial Argues Audit "Risk Assessment" Raises Troubling Questions About Department of Revenue
To contact us Click HERE
From the Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette:
Answers regarding a $526 million tax error will have to wait until after Election Day, but the first step in the audit process raises troubling questions about whether the Indiana Department of Revenue can ensure the mistakes aren’t repeated.
Auditors for Deloitte & Touche presented a 27-page risk assessment to the State Budget Committee this month. It identified as “high risk” nine of 18 key business processes used by the Department of Revenue. Eight were classified as “medium risk” and one – providing taxpayer assistance – as “low risk.”
The report cautions that “risk” and “problem” are not synonymous. The observation about priorities – see box below – suggests that cutting costs was more important than getting the job done right....
A final report is expected in December, after voters choose state leaders in November.
The pending review is important regardless of who is elected in November. Hoosiers must be able to trust that the state’s financial information is accurate. Revenue reports are the basis of the biennial budget. They inform tax policy and spending decisions at not only the state level but also the local level. Getting them right is vital.
http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20120923/EDIT/309239979/0/SEARCH
Answers regarding a $526 million tax error will have to wait until after Election Day, but the first step in the audit process raises troubling questions about whether the Indiana Department of Revenue can ensure the mistakes aren’t repeated.
Auditors for Deloitte & Touche presented a 27-page risk assessment to the State Budget Committee this month. It identified as “high risk” nine of 18 key business processes used by the Department of Revenue. Eight were classified as “medium risk” and one – providing taxpayer assistance – as “low risk.”
The report cautions that “risk” and “problem” are not synonymous. The observation about priorities – see box below – suggests that cutting costs was more important than getting the job done right....
A final report is expected in December, after voters choose state leaders in November.
The pending review is important regardless of who is elected in November. Hoosiers must be able to trust that the state’s financial information is accurate. Revenue reports are the basis of the biennial budget. They inform tax policy and spending decisions at not only the state level but also the local level. Getting them right is vital.
http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20120923/EDIT/309239979/0/SEARCH
Elkhart County still has 12,900 Homestead Deductions Unverified
To contact us Click HERE
From the Elkhart Truth:
Time is ticking for almost 12,900 people in Elkhart County who have yet to confirm their eligibility for a tax break on their homes.
County auditor Pauline Graff said about a quarter of homeowners who claim a homestead deduction have failed to verify information that could help them save big bucks on their taxes. The deduction covers up to 60 percent or $45,000, whichever is less, of a home’s assessed value. Homeowners who don’t turn in a homestead verification form by Dec. 31 risk losing the deduction, Graff said. Not verifying the deduction could mean a large increase in property taxes for homeowners because they would have to pay taxes on the full assessed value of their home.
The county has mailed pink homestead verification forms with tax bills for the past three years. And for some reason or another, Graff said, some homeowners have not filled the forms out.
“If they don’t start getting here soon, they may end up standing in a line for two hours or more,” she said. “There could start being lines that go down the hallway and down the stairs.”
The forms were created after legislation passed requiring taxpayers who receive a homestead deduction to verify their eligibility for the tax break. The idea was to allow county government to improve its management over homestead filings.
People who don’t verify their deduction by the end of this year must prove that their address is their primary residence and wait for a refund on their taxes next year, county property compliance manager Kim Miller said. For proof, the county accepts the last five digits of the homeowner’s Social Security number, the last five digits of his driver’s license and his Indiana tax return.
...
http://www.etruth.com/article/20120923/NEWS01/709239937
Time is ticking for almost 12,900 people in Elkhart County who have yet to confirm their eligibility for a tax break on their homes.
County auditor Pauline Graff said about a quarter of homeowners who claim a homestead deduction have failed to verify information that could help them save big bucks on their taxes. The deduction covers up to 60 percent or $45,000, whichever is less, of a home’s assessed value. Homeowners who don’t turn in a homestead verification form by Dec. 31 risk losing the deduction, Graff said. Not verifying the deduction could mean a large increase in property taxes for homeowners because they would have to pay taxes on the full assessed value of their home.
The county has mailed pink homestead verification forms with tax bills for the past three years. And for some reason or another, Graff said, some homeowners have not filled the forms out.
“If they don’t start getting here soon, they may end up standing in a line for two hours or more,” she said. “There could start being lines that go down the hallway and down the stairs.”
The forms were created after legislation passed requiring taxpayers who receive a homestead deduction to verify their eligibility for the tax break. The idea was to allow county government to improve its management over homestead filings.
People who don’t verify their deduction by the end of this year must prove that their address is their primary residence and wait for a refund on their taxes next year, county property compliance manager Kim Miller said. For proof, the county accepts the last five digits of the homeowner’s Social Security number, the last five digits of his driver’s license and his Indiana tax return.
...
http://www.etruth.com/article/20120923/NEWS01/709239937
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