One of the biggest expenses New Yorkers face is an expensive tax bill, with New York’s property taxes grossly exceeding the national average. In response to the needs of my constituents, I helped implement the STAR Program when I was first elected to the Assembly.
The STAR Program has worked well for homeowners throughout the state, especially here in upstate New York. Unfortunately, like any program meant to help people, there are those who attempt to scam the system.
Because the State Comptroller’s office found evidence of fraud, we’re asking that you re-register between now and December 31 for your Basic STAR savings. This new process is an effort to better protect your tax dollars, and will help weed out anyone who enrolled multiple times or enrolled fraudulently.
Luckily, re-registering is pretty easy to do. Once you re-register, you won’t need to register again; based on the information you give during the registration process, the Tax Department will be able to gauge your eligibility in years to come.
This new registration process only applies to homeowners receiving the Basic STAR exemption. Seniors receiving Enhanced STAR program benefits don’t need to re-register, as that program requires income to be annually verified for eligibility.
Homeowners can re-register now through the Tax Department’s website at www.tax.ny.gov or by calling (518) 457-2036. More information on the program can be found at www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star13.htm. The Department of Taxation and Finance will be sending homeowners a reminder as well.
Don’t forget to re-register before December 31 so you can continue to get STAR savings on your property taxes.