February 5, 2012STAR Program
What is STAR?
STAR is Governor George E Pataki's School Tax Relief Program that provides a partial exemption from school property taxes. All New Yorkers who own and live in their one, two, or three family home, condominium, cooperative apartment, manufactured home, or farm dwelling are eligible for a STAR exemption on their primary residence. There are two parts to the STAR program.
The Basic STAR exemption is available for owner occupied, primary residences regardless of the owners' ages or incomes. When you apply simply bring something proving your residency (drivers license, voter card, or vehicle registration).
The Enhanced STAR exemption is available for the primary residences (must vote and file income taxes using that address) of senior citizens (age 65 and older) with yearly household incomes (Adjusted Gross Income on the previous years tax return) not exceeding the statewide standard ($66,050 for 2005). When you apply for the first time please bring proof of age (birth certificate or drivers license), proof of residency (drivers license), and proof of income (previous years income tax return, if you file one, or year end statements if you no longer file).
How to Apply
You must file an application with the assessor's office between October 1st and March 1st. We are located on the first floor of Jamestown city hall located at 200 E 3rd St, Jamestown NY. This is also where you may pick up an application, or you may print one from the state web site at www.orps.state.ny.us. Property owners who are granted the Basic STAR generally do not need to reapply in subsequent years because the Basic STAR is granted regardless of income, however, Basic STAR recipients will need to notify this office by phone at (716) 483-7510 or by mail if their primary residence changes. Enhanced STAR recipients must reapply, reprove income eligibility and residency each year.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact this office at (716) 483-7510.