The STAR program for New York state is one of those elements of Long Island real estate that talked about alot, but understood very little. Most people refer to the STAR program as a simple real estate property tax decrease. STAR is an acronym for School Tax Relief.
The STAR program application is completed by homeowners one time and provides an exemption from school taxes for non-owner occupied, primary residents. The deadline for filing is generally March 1st of each year, however it is best to check with your local tax assessor.
A great resource for information on the STAR program is http://www.orps.state.ny.us/star/index.cfm.
Thomas ~ Just as a side note, I believe that seniors have to apply every year - as I remind my parents, who are over 65, every year to make sure they do so.
BTW, thanks for the invite to the group! : )