Board of Education passes resolution to increase tax exemption income limits for senior citizens

Nov. 5, 2024 –  At its regular meeting on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, the North Syracuse Central School District Board of Education passed a resolution to increase income eligibility limits for senior residents who qualify for partial real property tax exemptions. This decision reflects the district’s commitment to supporting senior residents by making property tax relief more accessible to eligible seniors within the community.

Under the resolution, North Syracuse seniors 65 and older with limited incomes may now qualify for tax exemptions ranging from five to 50 percent, based on their income level. The income eligibility limits have been adjusted to account for increases in the cost of living, with the highest exemption of 50 percent available to seniors earning up to $39,000 annually. The income scale continues to adjust incrementally, with a five percent exemption available to those earning up to $47,400. The change will take effect for the March 1, 2025, taxable status date.

The Board has also made modifications to how eligibility income is calculated, aiming to increase access to the exemption. Notably:

• Medical and prescription drug expenses not covered by insurance will no longer reduce an applicant’s qualifying income.
• IRA distributions included in the applicant’s federal adjusted gross income will now be excluded from the income calculation.

"We recognize the importance of ensuring our senior residents have access to property tax relief that aligns with their financial situations," said Board of Education President Michael A. Mirizio. "By making these adjustments, the district demonstrates its dedication to the well-being of our senior community members."