Can I stack multiple NYC property tax exemptions?

Yes, multiple exemptions can be combined. For example, a senior veteran could receive Enhanced STAR plus SCHE plus Veterans Exemption simultaneously. Each program has its own eligibility requirements and application process. The combined savings can be substantial, potentially reducing your tax bill by 50% or more.

How do I apply for the STAR Credit in NYC?

Register online at the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance website. You need your Social Security number, property address, and income information. Once approved, you receive the benefit as a check or direct deposit before your school tax payment is due. The income limit for Basic STAR is $500,000. Registration is free and takes about 10 minutes.

NYC Property Tax Exemptions for Homeowners 2026

The Bridge and Boro Team · Property Tax Exemptions · Staten Island + Brooklyn

Homeowner Guide · 2026

NYC Tax Breaks You Might Be Missing.

Thousands of NYC homeowners are overpaying property taxes because they do not know about exemptions they qualify for. Here is the complete list for 2026, who qualifies, and how to apply.

Joseph Ranola

Associate Broker · The Bridge and Boro Team

Available Programs

$500K

Basic STAR Income Limit
School Tax Reduction

50%

Max SCHE Reduction
Seniors 65+ Eligible

15%+

Veterans Exemption
Wartime Service

Stack

Multiple Benefits
Can Be Combined

What is the difference between STAR Exemption and STAR Credit?

This is the most commonly confused aspect of NYC property taxes. They deliver the same benefit amount but work differently depending on when you bought your home.

Important Distinction

The Basic STAR Exemption program is CLOSED to all new applicants since 2015. If you bought your home after 2015, you must register for the STAR Credit instead. Same benefit, different delivery method: you receive a check or direct deposit from NYS rather than a reduction on your tax bill. Register at the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance website.

Existing Homeowners (Pre-2015)

STAR Exemption

Reduces school tax by $30,000 of assessed value. Applied directly to your tax bill. You are grandfathered in if you were already receiving it. Income limit: $500K.

New Homeowners (Post-2015)

STAR Credit

Same benefit amount, delivered as a check or direct deposit from NYS before your school tax is due. Must register online. Income limit: $500K. Free to register, takes 10 minutes.

What other property tax exemptions can NYC homeowners get in 2026?

Seniors 65+

Enhanced STAR

For homeowners 65 and older with income up to $98,700 for 2026. New in 2026: automatic upgrade from Basic to Enhanced STAR, no action needed by qualifying seniors.

Seniors 65+

SCHE

Senior Citizens Homeowners Exemption. Up to 50% property tax reduction for seniors 65+ with income under approximately $58,399. Apply through NYC Department of Finance.

Military

Veterans Exemption

15% for wartime service, plus 10% for combat zone duty, plus additional disability percentage. Cold War Veterans (1945-1991): 15%. Can be stacked with STAR and SCHE.

Disability

DHE

Disabled Homeowners Exemption. Up to 50% reduction, similar structure to SCHE. For homeowners with qualifying disabilities regardless of age.

Not Sure What You Qualify For?

I help my clients and their neighbors figure out which exemptions they are eligible for. It takes 10 minutes and can save thousands per year.

Work With Joseph

Bridge and Boro Real Estate Team · (917) 905-2541 · ranolarealestate.com