Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) today is reminding local homeowners to reapply to receive their School Tax Relief (STAR) Property Tax Exemptions. The program, which saves the average New York homeowner $700 per year, was restructured as part of this year’s budget and requires renewal before the end of the year. However, many homeowners still have not renewed their exemptions. The deadline to apply is December 31. The new guidelines do not affect homeowners age 65 or older who are already enrolled in Enhanced STAR.

Homeowners should beware of solicitations offering a fee-based service to apply for the STAR exemption. The registration process is free and can be completed in a matter of minutes without assistance of a lawyer.

“The re-registration process for the STAR Property Tax Exemption will help the state eliminate the waste, fraud and abuse that currently exist in the system, while ensuring that eligible homeowners continue to receive the relief they deserve,” said McDonough. “Nassau County homeowners pay among the highest property taxes in the nation, and this relief is critical to help make ends meet. I strongly encourage all eligible homeowners to reapply for the STAR Property Tax Exemption to ensure they continue to receive this valuable tax relief.”

In compliance with new guidelines meant to prevent fraud and abuse of STAR benefits, participants must sign up by telephone or online with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance to continue their exemption for 2014 and beyond. To register, visit www.tax.ny.gov or call (518) 457-2036.