Property taxes can feel confusing until you see how the pieces fit together. If you own a home or plan to buy in Orange County, especially in the Town of New Windsor area (ZIP 10950), understanding how bills are set, when assessments change, and what relief you may qualify for can save you time and money. This guide walks you through the basics so you can read your bill, plan for due dates, and know what to do if your assessment seems high. Let’s dive in.
What your Orange County tax bill includes
Your total property tax is made up of several parts. You may receive separate bills, and each has its own due date and collector.
- School district taxes (often the largest portion)
- Orange County tax
- Town or city tax (for many residents here, the Town of New Windsor)
- Village tax (if your property is inside a village)
- Special districts, such as fire, water, sewer, library, or lighting
Each governing body sets a levy, which is the total amount it needs to raise. The local assessor’s roll provides the taxable base used to calculate the tax rate for each levy.
How your assessment becomes your bill
Market, assessed, and taxable value
- Market or full value is what your property would likely sell for on the open market.
- Assessed value is set by the local assessor for the tax roll. In New York, this can be a fraction of market value depending on local practice.
- Taxable assessed value is your assessed value after exemptions. Your total bill is your taxable assessed value multiplied by the tax rates for each taxing entity.
Equalization rates in New York
Towns and villages may assess at different fractions of market value. Equalization rates help align assessments across jurisdictions so county and school levies are allocated fairly. These rates are published by state or county real property tax offices.
Assessment cycle and notices
Most towns and cities maintain annual assessment rolls. Tentative assessment rolls are typically published in spring. You will see your assessed value and any changes, and a grievance window follows for you to challenge the value if needed.
Common exemptions and credits
Eligibility can change, and some programs are local options. Always confirm current rules with your assessor or the state tax office.
STAR (School Tax Relief)
The STAR program provides relief on school taxes for owner-occupied primary residences. Basic STAR is available to many homeowners, and Enhanced STAR supports eligible seniors who meet income and age criteria. Depending on the program, STAR can be an exemption on your assessment or a direct credit.
Veterans, seniors, and disability
- Veterans’ exemptions are widely offered and vary by locality and veteran status.
- Senior citizen exemptions are local options with income and age requirements.
- Disability and legally blind exemptions may be available for qualifying homeowners.
Other local programs
Some properties may qualify for agricultural or forest use assessments, certain nonprofit exemptions, or local historic property options. These are less common for single-family homes but are worth asking about if you think you may qualify.
Appealing your assessment
You have the right to challenge your assessed value if you believe it is too high.
Start with an informal review
- Review your property record (sometimes called a property card) for square footage, lot size, and features. Correct any errors.
- Pull recent comparable sales and note differences in size, condition, and amenities.
- Contact the assessor to discuss your questions and the sales used to support your value.
File a formal grievance with the BAR
If you still disagree, file a grievance with the Board of Assessment Review during the local grievance period, commonly in May after the tentative roll is posted. Deadlines are strict and vary by municipality, so check your notice or contact the assessor’s office for dates and forms.
If you disagree with the BAR decision
Your next steps may include Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR), if available, or a tax certiorari proceeding in state court. Many homeowners hire an appraiser or a real estate attorney for these cases. Keep in mind that filing fees, evidence rules, and timelines apply.
Evidence that helps
- Recent comparable sales
- Independent appraisal
- Photos and notes on condition or repairs
- Corrections to property characteristics, such as square footage or bedroom count
Billing, due dates, and penalties
Different collectors issue different bills. School taxes often follow a different calendar than county or town taxes. Check each bill for due dates, installment options, and payment methods.
Late payments usually incur penalties and interest set by the collecting entity. Continued non-payment can lead to tax liens and, after extended delinquency, potential lien sales or foreclosure depending on local procedures. Some municipalities offer installment plans or deferred payment options for eligible seniors or disabled homeowners. Contact the appropriate collector to review your options.
Homeowner checklist for ZIP 10950
- Find your local assessor and review your property card for accuracy.
- Watch for the spring tentative roll and note the grievance deadline.
- Confirm your STAR enrollment each year if you are eligible.
- Keep documents handy: deed, proof of residency, income proof for senior or Enhanced STAR, veteran status, appraisals, and comps.
- If appealing, gather sales data, photos, and supporting reports early.
- Identify all entities that bill you (school, county, town, village, special districts) and calendar due dates to avoid penalties.
- When buying or selling, ask for recent tax bills and an estimate of the typical effective tax rate for similar nearby properties.
Where to find current local information
- Orange County Real Property Tax Service Agency for county-level assessment data and equalization information.
- Town of New Windsor Assessor for your property record, tentative roll, local exemptions, forms, and grievance dates.
- New York State Office of Real Property Tax Services for statewide guidance on assessments and equalization.
- New York State Department of Taxation and Finance for current STAR eligibility and application steps.
- Your local school district and the town or city collector for billing calendars, tax rates, payment methods, and delinquency rules.
- A local bar association or real estate attorney for guidance on SCAR or tax certiorari procedures.
Buying or selling with taxes in mind
Property taxes affect your monthly budget as a buyer and your pricing strategy as a seller. As a buyer, compare effective tax rates among similar homes and understand which special districts apply to a property. As a seller, make sure your listing information is accurate and be ready to explain current exemptions, since some are tied to the owner and not the property.
If you want help gathering the right information and understanding how taxes shape your next move, the Carol Mahoney Team is here to help. We pair local knowledge with hands-on support so you can plan with confidence.
Ready to take the next step? Work with a local expert who knows Hudson Valley assessments, bills, and due dates. Connect with the Carol Mahoney Team Inc to plan your move.
FAQs
How do Orange County NY property tax bills break down?
- Your total bill often includes school, county, and town taxes, plus village and special district charges if they apply to your property.
What is the tentative assessment roll in New Windsor?
- It is the spring publication of assessed values that opens a short grievance window for you to challenge your assessment.
Which exemptions can reduce school taxes in ZIP 10950?
- STAR provides school tax relief for eligible owner-occupants, with Enhanced STAR for qualifying seniors, subject to current rules.
What happens if I miss a property tax due date in Orange County?
- Late payments typically incur penalties and interest, and extended non-payment can result in tax liens and potential foreclosure.
How do I challenge a New Windsor assessment I think is too high?
- Start with the assessor for an informal review, then file a grievance with the Board of Assessment Review, and consider SCAR or court if needed.
Where can I find my current tax rate for my home?
- Your bill or local collector posts the rates used each year, and the assessment roll shows how your taxable value was calculated.
