Assemblymember Jonathan G. Jacobson (D-Newburgh) is reminding area residents 65 and older that the deadline for filing in the Enhanced STAR program is this Friday, March 1^st. Applications must be filed with the local tax assessor.

The Enhanced STAR exemption is separate from the Basic STAR exemption, which applies to homeowners with a household income of up to $500,000. The Enhanced STAR program is for homeowners 65 and up with a household income limit of $86,300. If a home is jointly owned, only one homeowner must be 65 years of age to qualify. There is also an additional Senior Citizen tax exemption with income limits that vary in each municipality.

Applicants must include a copy of their 2017 tax returns with their application.

Those currently enrolled in the Enhanced STAR program must file a renewal application and submit their 2017 tax returns.

If you are receiving the Basic STAR exemptions, you need not reapply unless you now own a different home. If you are a homeowner and are not receiving the Basic STAR exemption, you must apply by March 1st.

Homeowners are urged to call their local assessor to confirm their status for all STAR programs. More information on Enhanced STAR and Basic STAR, including enrollment forms, can be found online at www.tax.ny.gov.