Q: When are Clinton County property taxes due for FY 2025?
A: The first installment for current year taxes is typically due by March 31, 2025. The final date to pay 2025 taxes to avoid foreclosure proceedings is March 2, 2026. Contact your local tax collector for specific payment schedules as they may vary by municipality.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require applications?
A: The primary tax credit is the STAR program, which provides school tax relief and REQUIRES APPLICATION. Basic STAR provides up to $30,000 in assessed value relief for school taxes only. Enhanced STAR offers additional relief for senior citizens meeting income requirements. These are credits that must be applied for annually or as directed by your municipality.
Q: How does the Homestead exemption work in Clinton County?
A: New York does not have a traditional "homestead exemption." Instead, the STAR program serves this function by reducing school tax liability. STAR limits or reduces school tax assessment for eligible homeowners but requires proper application and income qualification. This is not automatic and must be applied for through your local assessor's office.
Q: When do I need to apply for STAR benefits?
A: Application deadlines vary by municipality within Clinton County. Generally, applications must be submitted two weeks prior to July 1st for towns like Altona and Beekmantown. Contact your local assessor's office for specific deadlines in your municipality, as missing deadlines can result in loss of benefits for that tax year.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Clinton County?
A: Assessment practices vary by municipality within Clinton County. Some conduct annual reassessments while others operate on multi-year cycles. Contact your local assessor's office for your specific reassessment schedule and appeal procedures.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payment penalties and interest rates are set by individual municipalities within Clinton County. Generally, penalties begin accruing after the due date, and properties may be subject to tax foreclosure proceedings if taxes remain unpaid beyond the final deadline (typically March 2nd of the following year).
Q: Can I pay my Clinton County property taxes online?
A: Payment options vary by municipality within Clinton County. Many towns and villages offer online payment systems, while others may require payment by mail or in person. Contact your local tax collector's office for available payment methods and any associated convenience fees.
Q: What special district taxes might apply to my property?
A: Special district taxes in Clinton County may include fire protection districts, water districts, sewer districts, and lighting districts. These appear as separate line items on your tax bill and rates vary by district. Your property may be subject to multiple special district taxes depending on your location and the services provided to your area.