Frequently Asked Exemption Questions
What if I buy a new home?
You must reapply for all exemptions every time your primary residence changes. You only need to own the home by the time you apply.
What is the deadline for applying?
Contact Assessor's office for deadlines. Town of Clarence Assessors's - 716-741-8941
Does STAR apply to all taxes on my property?
No. STAR applies only to school district taxes. It doesn’t apply to other property taxes such as county, town or city.
How are exemptions administered where property is in a trust?
The exemption applies only to the beneficiaries of the trust, not any of the trustees. For example, you create a trust and convey your home to your children as trustees, and you and your spouse remain in the home as beneficiaries of the trust. For exemption purposes, you’re the owners of the home, not your children, which entitles you to exemption benefits.
How are exemptions administered where property is in a life estate?
The exemption applies to the life tenant. The life tenant is the person who owns and benefits from the property for the duration of his or her life.
How does the Alternative Veterans’ Exemption work?
The exemption reduces the assessed value of your primary residence before the tax rate is applied. There are three levels of benefits:
- 15% of assessed value for veterans who served during a period of war.
- Additional 10% for veterans who served in a combat zone.
- Additional benefit for disabled veterans (equal to one-half of their service connected disability rating).
- Maximum limits apply.
How does the Cold War veterans’ exemption work?
The exemption reduces the assessed value of your primary residence before the tax rate is applied. There are two levels of benefits:10 or 15 percent of the assessed value to veterans who served during the Cold War, depending on the community. This benefit is limited to 10 years.
Additional benefit to disabled veterans (equal to one-half of their service-connected disability).
There is no time limit for the additional benefit.
Maximum limits apply.