Senator Malcolm A. Smith Acts to Protect Homeowners Who Apply for the Star Rebate Program

(ST. ALBANS, NY) Homeowners will have the peace of mind in knowing they will receive the property tax breaks they are entitled to under legislation (S3087) supported by Senator Smith which requires that taxpayers be given a receipt confirming they in fact applied for a STAR exemption.

Continuing to fight for comprehensive property tax relief, Senator Smith championed this legislation after learning some homeowners did not receive their STAR exemption because their assessor claimed the application was never submitted.

“Homeowners need relief and this measure is a small but important step forward in my efforts to provide substantive property tax relief.  It protects property owners from getting stuck in a bureaucratic mix-up, ensuring they receive the tax breaks they are entitled to,” said Senator Smith.

This bill, S3087, requires tax assessors to provide a receipt when a homeowner submits an application for a STAR exemption.  The receipt will serve as formal proof if any dispute arises over whether or not the homeowner had applied.  Homeowners must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the receipt if they apply by mail.