Addabbo looks to help senior and disabled residents apply for property and rent exemption programs in Ozone Park

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. has once again teamed up with the Department of Finance (DOF) to host an Enrollment Event for homeowners and tenants next month.

Representatives from the DOF will be on hand at the Deshi Senior Center, located at 83-10 Rockaway Boulevard, in Ozone Park from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, to assist certain homeowners and tenants in applying for property tax exemptions and Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) or Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) programs.

“I always enjoy partnering with the DOF to bring these enrollment events to the people of my district,” Addabbo said. “Seniors and individuals with disabilities are often times taken advantage of in the housing and renting markets, so it is vitally important for them to know their rights, as well as what exemptions and programs they are entitled to. I encourage anyone who has questions about property tax exemptions or the SCRIE and DRIE programs to come out on May 15 to speak with a DOF representative and get answers.”

In order to qualify for property tax exemptions, homeowners must be senior citizens, veterans, persons with disabilities, or clergy members. To apply for property tax exemptions, DOF requires you to bring a photo ID; you tax returns, or proof of income for 2016 or 2017 for all owners; DD214 or discharge papers (for veterans); and trust documents (if applicable).

To qualify for the rent freeze, SCRIE or DRIE programs, tenants must be 62 years old or 18 years old with a qualifying disability; have a household income of $50,000 or less; live in a rent regulated apartment; and spend more than 1/3 of your income on rent.

To apply for these programs, tenants need to bring a photo ID; 2017 tax returns, W2, or 1099 statements; income documents for all household members; copies of your two most recent leases; and Social Security disability award letter (if applicable).

New York Housing Authority (NYCHA) and Section 8 recipients are not eligible.

For more information, contact Addabbo’s Howard Beach office at 718-738-1111.