Smithtown To Consider New Property Tax Breaks For Seniors, Veterans, Military Families

SMITHTOWN, NY — The Town of Smithtown Town Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. at Town Hall, 99 West Main St., to consider adopting several newly authorized New York State property tax exemptions.

The legislation, recently approved at the state level and signed into law by the governor, expands potential property tax relief for seniors living on fixed incomes, fully disabled veterans, active-duty military members who served in combat zones, and surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty.

Under state law, each taxing jurisdiction — including towns, school districts and counties — must hold its own public hearing and vote independently on whether to adopt the exemptions. Smithtown officials said the town is now taking the required first step in that process.

The town’s portion accounts for approximately 11 percent of a typical property tax bill, meaning any additional relief from school or county taxes would require separate action by those entities.

Proposed Exemptions Under Consideration

Fully Disabled Veterans — 100% Town Tax Exemption

The proposal would provide a full exemption from Town property taxes, including special district charges and assessments, for veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability whose home is their primary residence. Eligible applicants must be deemed permanently and totally disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Active-Duty Military Members Who Served In A Combat Zone
Active-duty service members stationed in New York who were deployed to a combat zone during the tax year may qualify for a Town property tax exemption of up to 25 percent of assessed value, capped at $20,000 equalized value. The exemption would apply only to Town taxes and must be reapplied for annually.

Surviving Spouses Of Police Officers Killed In The Line Of Duty
To honor fallen officers and support their families, the proposed local law would grant a 50 percent Town property tax exemption for the primary residence of eligible surviving spouses.

Senior Citizens Age 65 And Over
The measure would also adopt an expanded income eligibility scale, allowing qualifying seniors to receive up to a 65 percent reduction in assessed value for Town tax purposes. Applications would require proof of income and submission through the Town Assessor.

Public Hearing Required By Law

The exemptions do not take effect automatically. State law requires a public hearing to allow residents to learn about the programs and provide input before the Town Board votes on adoption. If approved, residents would still need to apply and meet eligibility requirements.

Applications and official forms are expected to become available following adoption and final state guidance.

For more information, residents can contact the Town of Smithtown Assessor’s Office at 40 Maple Ave., Smithtown, or call (631) 360-7560.