The Peru Gazette

Recent State changes mean local assessors can no longer process STAR applications, and homeowners must now work directly with New York State to register or update their STAR information.

Clinton County, NY, Feb. 25, 2026 – The Clinton County Legislature, working with the Clinton County Treasurer’s Office and the Clinton County Real Property Office, is reminding homeowners that the deadline to act on the School Tax Relief (STAR) program is March 2 this year, as March 1 falls on a Sunday.

Recent State changes mean local assessors can no longer process STAR applications, and homeowners must now work directly with New York State to register or update their STAR information.

“Property taxes are one of the biggest expenses many families and seniors face, and programs like STAR can make a real difference in whether those costs are manageable,” said Clinton County Legislature Chairman Mark Henry. “With the State changing how this program is administered, it’s critical that residents understand what’s different, what they need to do, and when they need to do it. The Legislature wants to make sure people don’t lose benefits simply because the process changed or a deadline was missed.”

New York offers STAR in two forms: the STAR credit, which is a check or direct deposit to help pay school taxes, and the STAR exemption, which reduces the school tax bill directly. Homeowners who have received the exemption since 2015 may continue for the same primary residence, but new homeowners must register for the STAR credit.

There are two benefit levels: Basic STAR, available to eligible homeowners with no age requirement, and Enhanced STAR, which provides a higher benefit for seniors age 65 and older who meet income limits. For the 2026 benefit year, eligibility is based on 2024 tax return information. Enhanced STAR is available to seniors with incomes of $110,750 or less. Basic STAR income limits are $500,000 for the credit and $250,000 for the exemption.

“STAR and local exemptions can make a real difference in a household budget,” said Finance Committee Chair Rob Timmons. “We’re encouraging people to take a few minutes now to make sure they’re properly registered and not leaving money on the table.”

“While the State now administers STAR, our goal locally is to make sure taxpayers aren’t left guessing,” said Clinton County Treasurer Randy Lozier. “We want residents to understand what’s changed, where to go for help, and what steps they need to take before the deadline.”

“Because local assessors can no longer process these forms, it’s especially important that residents don’t wait until the last minute,” said Tammy Lacey of the Clinton County Real Property Office. “Seniors in particular should review the exemption options that may be available to them under the State’s updated system.”

In addition to STAR, homeowners may also qualify for local property tax exemptions, including the Senior Citizens Exemption and the Limited Income Disability Exemption, with income limits that vary by taxing jurisdiction. For questions about local exemptions, residents should contact their local assessor or the Clinton County Real Property Office at 137 Margaret Street, Suite 210, or call 518-565-4760.

For STAR registration or updates, residents must contact the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance at 518-457-2036 or visit https://www.tax.ny.gov/star/