New form is required for new and former recipients
A change to the New York State Enhanced STAR program takes effect in 2019. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) is reminding property owners that qualify for this program to submit a new form that is required to receive the popular tax rebate.
“This exemption can save homeowners hundreds of dollars each year, and the extra money can go a long way,” Lupardo said. “This year, it is important for seniors to make sure they fill out and submit this new form so they can continue receiving their rebate.”
No changes have been made to income requirements, seniors with a combined household income of $86,300 still qualify, however the process for verifying that income has changed. Seniors with Enhanced STAR do not need to worry about signing up again, but must complete a new form that will allow for verification of their income. This form was mailed to eligible seniors and must be returned by March 1, 2019. New state law makes the Income Verification Program mandatory for anyone receiving Enhanced STAR or the Senior Citizens’ Partial Real Property Tax Exemption.
It is important to note that anyone becoming eligible for Enhanced STAR must register with the state by the same March 1st deadline; if you turn 65 in 2019, even if it is after March 1st, you must register by that date. If you are already enrolled in the program, all you need to do is fill out and return the new supplement form.
No changes have been made to the regular STAR program, any homeowner whose combined household income is less than $500,000 is still eligible to receive school property tax relief. For information about re-registering or upgrading to Enhanced STAR, visit www.tax.ny.gov or call (518) 457-2036. You can also call the Broome County Office for Aging at 607-778-2411 or your local assessor’s office.