On these pages, you will find information about various tax programs that Westchester wants you to be aware of.

Presently, the program is Middle Class Star, available to most homeowners in Westchester. But you have to apply for it. County Executive Andy Spano has launched an educational program about Middle Class Star to ensure that those who qualify for the rebate know about it and get what they are entitled to.

The Basic Star and Enhanced Star programs from New York State have been around for several years. Because school taxes are high in New York State, the state government recently created this latest program. 

It is one of number of campaigns that Spano has launched, designed to help taxpayers:

• The Earned Income Tax Credit:  Annually, the county assists thousands of low-income residents with preparation of their federal and state tax forms to make sure that they get the EITC credit.
  
• The Alternative Minimum Tax: Spano has campaigned vigorously for changes in the federal income tax law to make sure that Westchester residents don't continue to be snared by the AMT, which basically wipes out most of their tax deductions. 
  
• Tax Preparer Legislation and Bill of Rights:  At Spano's urging, the  Board of Legislators enhanced a law to regulate professional tax preparers, which includes a Taxpayer Bill  of Rights.