1. When should I apply for exemptions?
All exemption applications and renewal forms (Aged, STAR, Veterans, Non-Profit) must be submitted to the Assessor’s Office January 1 through March 1st of each year in order for it to apply for that year’s upcoming taxes.
2. Is everyone eligible for the STAR exemption?
New applicants can apply directly to New York State Department of Taxation and Finance either online at www.tax.ny.gov/star or by phone at (518)457-2036.
3. What is the difference between the Basic and Enhanced version of STAR?
As noted above, the basic STAR can apply to all owner-occupiers, and an additional amount of exemption may be granted for those residents who are 65 years of age and whose income does not exceed $88,050 (2011 Federal Adjusted Gross) for the 2020 assessment roll.
4. What are the exemption options for veterans?
The Town offers the Alternative Veterans Exemption for those who have served during specified periods of war.
Recently, the State Legislature passed an additional real property tax exemption for those who served in the armed forces during the period defined as the “Cold War” between September 2, 1945 through December 26, 1991. Previously, there have been periods since World War II where a veteran, because of the dates of service, was not eligible for the Alternative Veterans Exemption already offered to veterans in Orangetown. This new option effectively closed this gap.
5. Are there exemptions for Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Workers?
The Town opted into the Volunteer Firefighters/Ambulance Workers Exemption Program (RPTL 466) for members of volunteer fire companies, departments and ambulance services who have served for at least five years to receive a real property tax exemption for Town and County purposes. For eligible Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Workers, the Town has opted into a 10% assessment reduction, exclusive of special districts, for those who have served in this capacity for at least 5 years.