STAR Re-Registration Coming Up

By Pam Robinson

Homeowners have to re-register for Basic STAR exemptions by Dec. 31.

An audit in March found widespread abuse of the tax-saving program, with people claiming second homes or otherwise not eligible to participate. Estimates by the state comptroller found as much as $13 million in fraud and abuse.

Homeowners should start receiving letters instructing them to reapply for the Basic STAR program online or by phone. People will need to verify their salaries, Social Security numbers and primary residences. The new registration for Basic STAR will only be required once, and homeowners will not have to re-register in future years.

Since it was established, the STAR program has provided a partial exemption from school taxes for most homeowners with incomes less than $500,000 on their primary residences. The new registration process will not affect this year’s tax bills, nor will it affect Enhanced STAR. Seniors are required to register every year to receive the Enhanced STAR exemption.

 More information can be found at http://tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star13.htm.