If you are like me, you got a little pink surprise in your Porter County Spring property tax bill.

The State of Indiana is requiring taxpayers who receive the homestead standard deduction to verify that they are eligible to receive the benefit. You must file State Form 53569. Failure to file the form will result in the removal of your homestead credit exemption. Residents of Porter County received the form (pink sheet) with their tax statements and must submit the form before June 1, 2010 to the Porter County Auditor at 155 Indiana Avenue, Room 204, Valparaiso, IN 46383.

1.      Identity. An original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate or a U.S. passport.  A change in the name listed on your birth certificate requires additional items to be brought in to show proof of each name change.

2.      Social Security Number. A Social Security card, a W-2, tax form, or a pay stub showing the name and Social Security number on it.

3.      Lawful Status. An original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate or a U.S. passport satisfies this requirement.

4.      Residency. Two recent statements (computer-generated acceptable) from a utility company, bank, credit card company, doctor or hospital showing name and residence address.

After you present the required documentation, you will receive an interim license at the BMV branch. You will receive your permanent license or identification card within 10 business days. It will be mailed from a secure, government-run facility to your mailing address.

To learn more about these requirements, please visit www.in.gov/bmw.