Have you applied for your STAR exemption?
By Donna Comella

Governor George Pataki's STAR program is aimed at relieving school property taxes - but you first have to apply!

The School TAx Relief program (STAR) was implemented last year for senior citizens whose income was under $60,000. This year, all residential property owners, who claim the property as their primary residence, are qualified for some relief - regardless of income.

For this first year, owners will see about a $10,000 exemption, depending on their town's equalization rate. According to Arcadia Assessor Larry Quinn, that's about a $180 savings, based on last year's Newark School District tax rate.

So, why aren't people applying? Quinn thinks it's because people are either unaware of the program, or confused about the eligibility requirements.

He estimates his office has processed about 600 applications, but thinks the number should be closer to 3,000. He adds, though, that the senior population seems to be on top of the situation - perhaps because they had last year to practice. (And if, you're a senior citizen whose income exceeds the $60,000, you can apply this year for the basic $10,000 exemption.)

Confused? Well, the form won't help. It is not clear or concise, and it uses lots of words like, "usually" and "probably." What is certain, however, is that you need to get an application from your Assessor's office and return it by March 1.

Both seniors and others use the same application. Seniors will have to attach proof of income, and others may have to prove residency.

If you need help, or have questions, phone your town's Assessor's office. In the Town of Arcadia, you can reach Quinn at 331-3914.

top of page

Copyright © 1999
Courier-Gazette, 613 S. Main St. Newark, N.Y. 14513
All Rights Reserved