INSTRUCTIONS: VERMONT HOMESTEAD DECLARATION (Form HS-131)

Vermont residents are required to form a form HS-131 whenever they purchase property that will be your primary residence, known formally as a "homestead," or whenever there is a change in the use of this homestead. This form is found on the website of the Vermont Department of Taxes. This form should be completed by the homeowner.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 1: At the top of the page, enter your Social Security number, full name and mailing address. If you file taxes jointly with your spouse, give their name and Social Security number.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 2: Give the location of the house where indicated.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 3: Question one asks about the school district code of your property.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 4: Question two asks for the city or town and state of your legal residence as of April 1.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 5: Question two asks for the School Property Account Number of the homestead. This can be obtained from your property tax bill.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 6: Directly below question two is an unnumbered section. If you have purchased a new homestead, give the full date of the purchase on the left. If you are declaring a change of use in property you have already purchased, give the date of this change.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 7: In response to question four, place checkmarks next to any of the four stated special situations which apply.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 8: If a percentage of your property has been set aside for business purposes, give the percentage number in response to question five.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 9: If a percentage of your property has been set aside for rental, enter the percentage in response to question six.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 10: Question seven asks if any new structures or other buildings on your property other than your homestead are used for business or rental. Circle "yes" or "no."

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 11: The primary homeowner, as well as their spouse if applicable, must sign and date the form and provide their telephone number.

Vermont Homestead Declaration HS-131 Step 12: Any paid preparer should sign their name and provide all other information requested.