Aug. 03, 2007

Westchester County has launched an educational effort to make sure that homeowners know about the state’s latest property tax rebate program, Middle Class Star, and how to apply for it.

“Taxpayers in Westchester can receive hundreds of dollars in rebates on their school taxes – even as much as $1,555.09, depending on income and school district,” County Executive Andy Spano said. “But you have to apply for the rebate to get it.”

The deadline for applications is Nov. 30. But homeowners need to wait for a mailing from the state Department of Taxation and Finance with important information before they can apply. For Yonkers residents, the state mailing has already begun and should be completed by September 1; for residents of the rest of the state, the mailing will go out by Oct. 17.

In an effort to get the word out and to help taxpayers get the rebate:

• Westchester has teamed up with United Way’s 2-1-1 help line. Callers to 2-1-1 will be advised how to get the rebate. If you need help filling out the form or have not received your rebate materials by the dates noted above, you may also call 2-1-1 (Cable phone users please dial 1-800-899-1479 for 2-1-1 services)  OR call the state at 1-877-6-STARNY.
  
• The county has devoted a section of its website to the tax program, with links on how to apply.
  
• The county is circulating a new flyer on the program to organizations and others.
  
• Posters for the inside of Bee-line buses are in development, as is a public service announcement.

 About the Program
To be eligible for the Middle Class Star rebate program, a person must already be receiving “Basic Star.”   The Basic STAR exemption is a property tax exemption program available to all homeowners who live in their residences. If you are unsure if you are receiving the Basic Star Exemption, call 2-1-1 for information.

If you have not applied for the Basic Star exemption, you should go to  http://www.orps.state.ny.us/ref/forms/index.htm for form RP-425. While you will not be able to get Middle Class Star this year, it may make you eligible for Middle Class Star in future years.

Seniors who receive Enhanced Star, based on their age and income, do not need to do anything. They will automatically qualify for their Middle Class Star rebate. For Yonkers seniors, this rebate should have been received already; for seniors elsewhere in the county, the rebate check should be received by Oct. 17.