Assemblyman Kenneth P. Zebrowski: Giving back to veterans
The brave men and women who have selflessly risked their lives to protect our country—whether they
did so in World War II, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or any time in between—deserve all the help and
support we can provide them and their families. That’s why Assemblyman Zebrowski wants veterans to
know about all the benefits and services available to them.
Providing property tax breaks
For those municipalities that offer it, the New York State Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption provides a partial exemption on real property taxes to wartime veterans, veterans who received expeditionary medals or the spouses of qualified veterans.
Qualified individuals must present the following as proof of eligibility:
- Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty AND
- Copy of deed to home (title must be in veteran’s or spouse’s name)
An Application for Veterans Exemption from Real Property Taxation (form RP-458) must be filed with
your local assessor.
Taking care of veterans and their families
To help the thousands of New Yorkers who have disrupted their lives to serve, the state continues
to support military families by:
- Restricting foreclosure actions
- Awarding $500 annual annuity payments to Gold Star parents of deceased veterans
- Granting scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies
- Providing burial allowances of up to $6,000
For more information or to see if you’re eligible for any of the benefits listed, call toll-free
1-888-VETS-NYS (1-888-838-7697) or visit
www.orps.state.ny.us.
Low-interest mortgage program for veterans
Assemblyman Zebrowski wants veterans to know about the state’s Homes for Veterans Program, which offers fixed-rate, low-interest mortgages to veterans and their spouses through the State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA). Under the program:
- Fixed interest rates are 0.5 percent lower than conventional interest rates
- Veterans and their spouses or co-borrowers do not have to be first-time homebuyers and there are no points or origination fees
- Closing cost assistance is available up to the greater of $3,000 or 3 percent of the requested loan amount
- The borrower’s cash contribution is only 1 percent, and the remaining 2 percent can come from a gift or other acceptable source
For more information, visit
www.nyhomes.org
or call 1-800-382-HOME(4663).
Operation Recognition
New York State recognizes the dedication and sacrifice of World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War
veterans who left school before graduation by awarding them with a high school diploma. The
experiences and skills learned in defense of freedom have given veterans unique knowledge and
special insight most could never attain. This diploma reflects our pride and gratitude for their
sacrifice and bravery.
To participate, veterans need only present ONE of the following as proof of service:
- DD Form 214 (Report of Separation)
- Certificate of Service (Honorably Served)
- Certificate of Release or Discharge from Department of Defense
- Letter from a recognized veterans’ agency affirming such service
Candidates possessing a High School Equivalency (GED) diploma are also eligible for the program.
Diplomas may be awarded to next of kin if eligibility is established.
YES, I wish to receive my high school diploma in recognition of my duty during World War II,
theKorean War or the Vietnam War.
Please clip this form and mail it, and a copy of the necessary documentation, to: Assemblyman
Kenneth P. Zebrowski, 67 North Main Street, New City, NY 10956
