Q: When are property taxes due in Oneida County for FY 2025-2026?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: first half due December 20th and second half due June 20th. Taxes become delinquent after December 20th if the first installment is not paid.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary tax credit is the STAR program, which provides school tax relief. Basic STAR and Enhanced STAR (for seniors over 65) both require annual application and are not automatic. Veterans may qualify for additional exemptions that also require application.
Q: How does the STAR program work?
A: STAR is a tax credit that reduces your school tax bill, not your assessed value. Basic STAR provides approximately $1,230 in annual school tax reduction, while Enhanced STAR for qualifying seniors provides around $2,100. You must apply annually through your local assessor's office.
Q: Is there a homestead exemption that caps assessment increases?
A: New York does not have a statewide homestead exemption that caps assessment increases. However, seniors may qualify for a Senior Citizens Exemption that can reduce assessed value by up to 50% based on income limits. The current income limit in Oneida County was increased by $11,000 in 2023.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Oneida County?
A: Assessment practices vary by municipality within Oneida County. Some areas conduct annual assessments while others may reassess every few years. Contact your local assessor's office for your specific municipality's schedule.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with your local Board of Assessment Review, typically between May 1st and Grievance Day (usually the fourth Tuesday in May). Contact your town or city assessor's office for specific deadlines and forms.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: After December 20th, taxes become delinquent and interest charges apply. Continued non-payment can eventually lead to tax sale proceedings. Contact the Oneida County Treasurer's office for specific penalty rates and payment arrangements.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Contact the Oneida County Treasurer's office or your local tax collector to inquire about online payment options, as availability may vary by municipality within the county.
Q: Why do special district taxes appear on my bill?
A: Special district taxes fund specific services like fire protection, street lighting, water, or sewer services. These districts are established to provide services to defined geographic areas, and property owners within those boundaries pay for the services through property tax assessments.
Q: How do village taxes work if I live in an incorporated village?
A: Properties located within incorporated villages pay an additional village tax on top of county, school, and town taxes. Village tax rates for 2025-26 range from 9.690 per $1,000 (Clinton) to over 26.0 per $1,000 (Camden), depending on your specific village's budget and services provided.
