Queens, NY – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic today issued a consumer advisory warning Queens residents of solicitations offering a fee-based service to apply for the School Tax Relief (STAR) property tax exemption—when homeowners can apply for free.

Enrollment for taxpayers ends December 31, 2013. The STAR rebate program is the only New York State-funded property tax exemption to help New Yorkers. But, as with all government programs—be careful! Make sure to deal only with the official NYS Department of Taxation and Finance or NYC Department of Finance forms.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• To sign up for the program and for any questions, register online at www.tax.ny.gov (registration materials are available in seven languages)
• Call 518-457-2036 to register by phone
• New York City has a separate form offered through NYC Department of Finance, which homeowners can request by calling 311 if they do not have internet access
• Do not give out personal information to someone not connected with NYS Department of Taxation and Finance or NYC Department of Finance
• Do not pay anyone for help. There are no fees to sign up for Basic STAR and Enhanced STAR for senior citizens. Beware of unsolicited offers of help
• Help is also available in-person. To find locations, go to the website or call 518-457-2036
• If you suspect fraud, call the New York State Taxpayer Rights Advocate at 518-530-4357

According to Governor Cuomo’s office, more than 60% of the 2.6 million Basic STAR recipients have registered for their exemptions. Homeowners should feel free to contact Assemblywoman Rozic’s office at 718-820-0241 or rozicn@assembly.state.ny.us with additional questions or concerns.