Q: When are property tax payments due in New York County?
A: Property taxes are due quarterly on July 1, October 1, January 1, and April 1. There's a grace period, but interest accrues on late payments.
Q: How do I qualify for the STAR exemption?
A: The STAR program provides school tax relief for owner-occupied primary residences. You must apply through the NYC Department of Finance and meet income requirements.
Q: Can I appeal my property assessment?
A: Yes, you can file a Tax Commission application if you believe your assessment is incorrect. The deadline is typically March 1st for the following tax year.
Q: What exemptions are available for seniors and veterans?
A: Senior Citizens may qualify for property tax exemptions based on income, and veterans may be eligible for exemptions based on service-connected disabilities.
Q: How is my property's assessed value determined?
A: The Department of Finance uses market analysis, comparable sales, and physical inspections to determine assessed values, applying different assessment ratios by property class.
Q: What happens if I don't pay my property taxes?
A: Unpaid taxes accrue interest and penalties. After one year, the city may sell a tax lien, and properties can eventually face foreclosure.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, you can pay online, by phone, or by mail. Visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/finance/property/property.page for payment options and account access.
Q: How do cooperative apartments handle property taxes?
A: Coop corporations pay property taxes on the entire building, then pass these costs to shareholders through maintenance fees, though individual units may qualify for certain exemptions.
Q: What is the difference between market value and assessed value?
A: Market value is what your property would sell for, while assessed value is a percentage of market value used for tax calculations, varying by property class.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in New York County?
A: Properties are subject to annual assessment review, though not all properties are physically inspected each year. Major changes or improvements trigger reassessment.