The Holiday Countdown Has Begun! Re-Register For Your STAR Property Tax Savings
Legislative Column from Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River)
The holiday countdown has begun. There always seems to be so much to do in a small amount of time. During this busy season, I’d like to remind homeowners to re-register for Basic STAR property tax savings. The deadline to register with the State Department of Taxation and Finance (DTF) is December 31.
This one-time requirement that you re-register for your Basic STAR savings with DTF is meant to help root out waste and fraud in the system. While re-registration numbers across the state are improving, there are many homeowners who have yet to reapply.
The Basic STAR program offers hundreds of dollars in school property savings to households annually. Don’t miss out on the savings to which you are entitled.
It’s easy to re-register for STAR. Start by visiting the DTF website at www.tax.ny.gov. You’ll be asked to verify your STAR Code and home address. If you do not have your STAR Code, you can look it up on the site or call (518) 457-2036.
You will then need to provide your name and Social Security Number, as well as your spouse’s, if you are married. You will need to confirm your primary residence, as STAR may only be claimed once. In total, combined spousal income must be less than $500,000. If you claim a property tax exemption in another state, you do not qualify for STAR.
Nothing changes for seniors receiving Enhanced STAR. You must continue to apply annually or participate in the Income Verification Program. Call DTF at (518) 457-2036 for more details.
If you just bought a new home, you’ll be registering that property for the first time. You will need to fill out an RP-425 Application for School Tax Relief (STAR) Exemption, which can be found at www.tax.ny.gov, and file it with your local tax assessor.
I am honored to be your representative in the Assembly, working to make New York more affordable for families. If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact my office at 493-3909 or email me at blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny. Please be safe this holiday season, and don’t forget to re-register for your Basic STAR.