DiNapoli Announces Major Property Tax Cut
Eligible Seniors Must Apply Now for Special "STAR" Exemption

New York State Assemblyman Tom DiNapoli is encouraging eligible senior citizens to take advantage of the "enhanced" School Tax Relief (STAR) exemption, part of a new state school tax relief program that goes into effect this year.

"The STAR Program means major savings for Nassau County seniors," DiNapoli said. "I want to make sure everyone who is eligible understands how to apply and filed for the exemption by the deadline."

To qualify for the enhanced exemption seniors must be 65-years-of-age or older, own the property and have an annual income that does not exceed $60,000. If a husband and wife own the property, only one of them must be at least 65 years old to qualify for the exemption, but their combined annual income cannot exceed $60,000. The exemption can only be applied to a primary residence.

Seniors with an annual income over $60,000, and all other homeowners, regardless of age or income, will qualify for the basic STAR exemption, which starts with the 1999-2000 school year.

This table lists the total savings homeowners can expect in 2002, when the STAR program is fully implemented.

	School District	Estimated Savings
		Basic	Enhanced
	Great Neck	$740	$1,230
	Manhasset	$790	$1,319
	Port Washington	$880	$1,470
	Roslyn	$840	$1,390
	Herricks	$950	$1,580
	East Williston	$920	$1,530
	Mineola	$830	$1,390
	New Hyde Park	$850	$1,420

To apply for the enhanced STAR exemption, call the Nassau County Department of Assessment at 571-2490. Applications must be completed and filed with the county by Dec. 31. Seniors must provide proof of age the first time they apply and must also prove their income under the enhanced exemption.

Seniors who already qualify for the over 65 property tax exemption, as part of section 467 of the Real Property Tax Law will automatically receive the STAR exemption when they apply for the section 467 tax break.

The STAR program is a real lifesaver for our seniors - especially those with incomes under $60,000," DiNapoli said. "Nassau County has some of the highest property taxes in New York State. This program will gradually provide much-needed school tax relief for every homeowner, without compromising our commitment to quality education."

If you have any questions, or want more information about the STAR program, please call Assemblyman DiNapoli's office at 482-6966.