As deadlines approach for filing property tax exemptions in the County, I urge residents to educate themselves in what is available in the way of tax relief.

Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) and the Nassau County Legislature's Majority members recently sponsored and passed legislation that will exempt qualifying SENIOR CITIZENS (65 and older and earning less than $62,100) from bearing the burden of the recent tax increase.

"While seniors will still get a tax bill reflecting an increase, please look closely at the bill for the credit you should receive in that same amount," Legislator Jacobs said.

In addition, SENIOR CITIZENS who qualify are also eligible for the New York State ENHANCED SCHOOL TAX RELIEF Program (Enhanced STAR). Enhanced STAR provides for a reduction of for county, town, highway and school taxes, depending on income. Senior citizens earning less than $62,100 per year are eligible for the Enhanced STAR Program.

The New York State School tax relief program (STAR) proves exemptions from school property taxes for owner-occupied primary residences. The BASIC STAR EXEMPTION program has been extended to all primary residences homeowners, regardless of age or income.

In addition, County lawmakers recently passed important legislation that will maintain current levels of property tax exemptions for U.S. MILITARY VETERANS after the reassessment process is complete. This Veteran's exemption provides a partial exemption from county, town and highway taxes, but does not apply to school and/or special district taxes.

"I am also proud to announce legislation was recently passed that will provide a partial real estate tax savings to our selfless volunteers of volunteer fire departments and volunteer ambulance services who have served in good standing for over five years," said Legislator Jacobs. The partial tax exemption would provide a 10% tax abatement on the assessed value of property owned by an enrolled member of a volunteer fire department or fire company, not exceeding $3,000 multiplied by the state equalization rate. The applicant must reside in the city, town or village, which is served by the fire department, and the applicant must occupy the property. Applicants who qualify would file with the County Tax Assessor's Office.

For more information about the eligibility requirements for any of these programs or exemptions, call Legislator Jacobs' office at 516-571-6216 or the County Assessor's Office at 516-571-1500.