Measure Provides Up to a 65% Exemption for Lowest-Income Senior Homeowners
The Westchester County Board of Legislators voted unanimously on Monday night to expand the County’s property tax exemption for low-income senior citizens, giving older residents with limited means more help staying in the homes and communities they love.
The local law updates the County’s existing senior exemption to match recent changes in New York State law, which now allows counties to offer a bigger break to seniors at the lower end of the income scale. With the Board’s vote, Westchester is putting those higher exemption levels in place for eligible homeowners.
Until now, the most a qualifying senior could receive was a 50% exemption on the County portion of their property taxes. Under the new law, seniors with incomes below the County’s $50,000 limit can receive more help, rising in steps to a 65% exemption for those earning less than $47,000 a year.
Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “Our seniors helped build this county, and they deserve to be able to afford to stay in the communities they call home. Cuts to SNAP, rising prices from federal tariffs, and the growing cost of living are putting enormous pressure on older residents, especially those with limited incomes. This law provides additional relief where it is needed most.”
Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (D–Mount Vernon), Chair of the Board’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, said, “By expanding the County’s property tax exemption for lower-income seniors, we’re taking meaningful legislative action to provide greater financial relief to those who need it most. Many of our seniors have spent decades contributing to our communities, and they deserve the opportunity to remain in the homes they’ve worked so hard for. I’m proud to support legislation that makes Westchester more affordable and helps our seniors age in place with dignity.”
Legislator José I. Alvarado (D–Yonkers), Chair of the Board’s Seniors and Youth Committee, said, “For seniors living on fixed incomes, every dollar matters. Property taxes can be a significant burden, particularly for those who have lived in their homes for decades. By expanding this exemption, we’re helping more older residents afford to stay in the neighborhoods they know, close to the friends, families, and communities that are such an important part of their lives.”
The new exemption levels apply to the 2027 tax year and begin on March 1, 2027. Seniors who think they may qualify should contact their local assessor’s office to apply. Seniors who already receive the exemption do not need to reapply.
A replay of Monday night’s Board meeting will be available here.