Eligible New Yorkers 62 years of age and older can receive rent increase exemptions through the City’s Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption Program (SCRIE).  The NYC Department of Finance administers SCRIE for rent-regulated (rent-stabilized and rent-controlled) apartments, while the NYC Department of Housing and Preservation and Development administers SCRIE for Mitchell-Lama rentals and co-op apartments. Applicants who are under the age of 62 and disabled should contact the NYC Department of Finance to inquire about the Disability Rent Increase Exemption Program (DRIE). 

SCRIE covers increases for renewal leases, Maximum Base Rent (MBR), fuel, landlord hardship and major capital improvements. SCRIE does not cover increases for direct services or new equipment. Rent must equal one-third of net monthly income. For rent-stabilized apartments, tenants must have a valid one or two-year lease. 

Under the Senior Citizens Homeowner Exemption Program (SCHE), owners of one-, two- and three- family houses, condominiums or cooperative apartments who are age 65 and older - and whose federally adjusted gross income (reduced by un-reimbursed medical expenses) meets eligibility guidelines - may qualify for a reduction in the assessed value of their homes by 5% to 50% (depending on income). The reduction in the assessed value of their homes significantly reduces the tax liability for participating seniors.