STAR School Tax Relief

Deadline to apply for school tax relief is March 1

All area residents who own their own homes can reduce their school property taxes through the New York State School Tax Relief (STAR) Program, regardless of age or income. But, the savings is not automatic.

The STAR Program is a tax relief for homeowners, paid for through state taxes. It is not a new source of funding for schools and does not reduce or increase actual school tax rates.

To receive the tax relief, you need to apply through your local assessor's office to be eligible for the tax break. Taxpayers receiving the Basic STAR exemption do not need to apply every year, but must notify their local assessor if their primary residence changes.

The school tax bill you receive in the fall will show the total amount you are exempt from paying under STAR. The actual amount of the full value exemption is dependent on the individual city/town where you reside.

Seniors who receive the Enhanced STAR exemption must reapply annually. Applicants must supply their 2005 income tax return.

Applications for the Basic and Enhanced STAR exemptions can be obtained from your local assessor.

Tax assessors for townships in the Monticello school district are as follows:

• Bethel: Marguerite Brown - 583-4713

• Fallsburg: Michael Pilmenstein - 434-8814

• Forestburgh: David Griffin – 794-0611

• Mamakating: Alane Romer – 888-3015

• Thompson: Nora Hughson – 794-2500

The deadline for all Basic and Enhanced STAR applications is March 1.