How to Lower Property Taxes in Westchester County
Learn common ways Westchester County homeowners may reduce their property tax burden through assessment reviews, exemptions, and appeal strategies.
Common Ways to Reduce Property Taxes
Property Tax Grievance
File a formal grievance with the Westchester County Department of Taxation if you believe your property is overvalued. The annual grievance period is typically March through May.
STAR Exemption
Apply for the STAR (School Tax Relief) exemption to reduce your school district taxes. Eligible homeowners can save hundreds to thousands annually.
Comparable Home Analysis
Compare your assessment to similar homes in your neighborhood. If nearby properties are assessed lower, you may have grounds for a reduction.
Correcting Property Record Errors
Review your property records for errors in square footage, lot size, or features. Incorrect data can lead to an inflated assessment.
Why Homeowners Appeal Property Taxes
Assessed value may be too high — Your property may be valued above its actual market value based on recent sales data.
Nearby homes may be assessed differently — Similar properties in your area might have lower assessments, creating an unequal tax burden.
Property condition issues — Damage, deferred maintenance, or other factors affecting your home's value may not be reflected in the assessment.
Incorrect property records — Errors in property data such as square footage, room count, or lot size can inflate your assessed value.
Helpful Tips Before Filing
Review your assessment notice
Check the assessed value and compare it to what you believe your property is worth.
Gather photos and comparable homes
Document property condition and find similar homes with lower assessments.
Check filing deadlines
Westchester grievance period is typically March through May each year.
Verify exemption eligibility
Check if you qualify for STAR or other property tax exemptions.
Start Your Westchester County Property Tax Review
Enter your address to see your current assessment and explore your options.