Show All Answers

1. What is a Basic STAR Tax Exemption?

Basic STAR tax exemptions are school tax exemptions only and are for all residents (regardless of age) who own and primarily reside in the subject premises. 

Beginning in 2011, any resident owner and/or spouse of an owner residing in the premises earning more than $250,000 in adjusted gross income (AGI) will no longer be eligible for the Basic Star exemption. Income eligibility will be automatically verified each year by the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance (DTF) through income tax returns on file. 

 If, for any reason, NYS DTF is unable to determine income eligibility, the applicant will be notified by the Department of Assessment and will be required to prove eligibility. 

 Basic STAR is available to owners of one, two and three family homes provided that it is the primary residence of at least one of the owners

2. How do I apply for a Basic STAR tax exemption?

New STAR applicants will receive a credit in the form of a check directly from New York State instead of receiving a school property tax exemption. Visit  New York State Department of Taxation and Finance or call (518) 457-2036 to register. 

3. Can I apply for multiple Basic STAR exemptions?

No. If an applicant owns several properties, they may only have the STAR exemption on one of those properties: the property that serves as the main primary residence.

4. I co-own a property, do both owners have to apply for STAR exemption?

If several people own one property, only one person needs to meet the residency requirement and make the application for the exemption.

5. How long do I need to own a property to apply for STAR exemption?

There is no minimum or maximum required time of ownership in order to apply for STAR exemption.

However, if you are a new owner within the last year, you should submit a copy of your deed with the application.

6. Can a tenant of a mobile home or co-op apartment apply for a STAR exemption?

Yes. They need to meet the residency requirement.

7. Can STAR Exemptions be granted for vacant land property owners?

No. STAR Exemptions are not granted to owners of vacant land.

8. Can corporations apply for STAR Exemption?

No. Corporations and/or business partnerships are not eligible for the STAR Exemption.

9. Can married couples who live in separate residences apply for individual STAR exemptions?

No. A married couple who live in two separate homes may not receive two separate STAR exemptions unless they are legally separated.

10. Who can I call about more specific STAR exemption questions?

Please call the Town Assessor's Office at (631) 957-3014.