STAR APPLICATIONS

Dear Homeowner:

Since its creation in 1997, the school property tax reduction (STAR) program has saved New York taxpayers millions of dollars by reducing homeowners' school property taxes. The "Enhanced STAR" program has been particularly helpful to senior citizens by dramatically reducing their property tax burdens and allowing them to keep more of their retirement income.

This year, the Governor has proposed some changes to the STAR program in his Executive Budget, but they DO NOT effect seniors that qualify for the Enhanced STAR exemption. I will work with my colleagues in the Senate Majority to make sure that the budget that is enacted protects senior citizens enrolled in the Enhanced STAR program.

Last year, I was pleased to support enactment of a major change in the STAR program to ensure that senior citizens remain eligible and continue to receive their full property tax savings. The new provision, which becomes effective with the 2003 assessment roll, increases the income limit for "Enhanced STAR" to $62,100 and automatically adjusts the income eligibility level each year based on annual cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security retirement benefits. As a result, nearly 13,000 seniors will be saved from being squeezed out of the STAR program due to relatively modest increases in their income.

I also fought to ensure that eligible recipients do not lose their benefits by creating the new Automatic Enhanced Star Income Verification Program. This simplified automatic process means that seniors wouldn't need to reapply every year to verify their eligibility.
All applications can be found below. Just print the application(s) and submit them to your local assessor.
Tax relief for my constituents has always been one of my top priorities, and I am pleased to provide you with the details of the updated STAR program. As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Sincerely,
Joseph L. Bruno
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Q&A; About STAR: The School Property Tax Exemption



STAR APPLICATIONS

Application for School Tax Relief (STAR) Exemption - RP-425
If you own property and it is your primary residence, you are probably eligible for a STAR school property tax exemption. To get your exemption fill out this form, and submit it to your local assessor.

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Renewal Application for STAR Exemption - RP-425-Rnw
If you received an Enhanced STAR Exemption on your prior year school tax bill, fill out this form to reapply and continue receiving the Exemption.

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NEW -- Optional Income Verification Program for School Tax Relief (STAR) Exemption - RP-425-IVP
A senior citzen eligible for the enhanced STAR exemption may use this form to participate in the STAR income verification program. Complete this form and submit it to your local assessor with a traditional STAR application and the necessary income tax return(s) by the application deadline.

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