Veterans exemptions

There are three different property tax exemptions available to veterans who have served in the U. S. Armed Forces, including veterans who have served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.

Obtaining a veterans exemption is not automatic – If you're an eligible veteran, you must submit the initial exemption application form to your assessor. The deadline in most communities is March 1—please confirm the date with your assessor. 

You can only receive one of the three exemptions listed below. 

• Alternative veterans exemption
  • Available only on residential property of a veteran who has served during a designated time of war, or a veteran who has received an expeditionary medal.
  • Counties, cities, towns, villages, and school districts have the option to offer this exemption to qualified veterans.
  • The exemption does not apply to special district charges.
  • Check with your assessor or clerk to see whether the alternative veterans exemption is offered.
  • Authorized by Real Property Tax Law, section 458-a.

• Cold War veterans exemption
  • Available only on residential property of a veteran who served during the Cold War period.
  • Counties, cities, towns, villages, and school districts have the option to offer this exemption to qualified veterans.
  • Check with your assessor or clerk to see whether the Cold War veterans exemption is offered.
  • Authorized by Real Property Tax Law, section 458-b.

• Eligible funds exemption
  • Provides a partial exemption from taxation.
  • Applies to property that a veteran or certain other designated person purchases. Such owners must purchase the property with pension, bonus or insurance monies.
  • The exemption does not apply to special district charges.

See Publication 1093, Veterans Exemption Questions & Answers – Partial Exemption from Property Taxes in New York State for more information.