Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Department of Finance (DOF) Commissioner Martha E. Stark today reminded owners of homes, cooperatives and condominiums in New York City that the legal deadline to apply for the second round of $400 rebates is March 15, 2005.   Homeowners who received the rebate last year do not have to re-apply. Only homeowners who have moved since October 15th, 2004 need to apply.
 
“New York’s homeowners deserve the $400 rebate,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “Our homeowners made tremendous sacrifices to help get the City through its fiscal crisis.  Without their commitment, we would have faced crippling cuts and layoffs that would have destroyed our quality of life.  I encourage all homeowners who have not applied for the rebate to do so by March 15th.”

“For homeowners who received the first $400 property tax rebate check and have not moved, all you need to do is pay your taxes on time and you will get your check in October,” said Commissioner Stark. “We only need to hear from you if you have moved, bought a home for the first time or forgot to apply last year.”

Homeowners who have purchased new property since October 15, and homeowners who did not apply for the first rebate check, should call 311 to determine if they need to apply. Owners must complete the School Tax Relief (STAR) application. The form is available at www.nyc.gov/finance, at all of DOF’s Borough Business Centers or by calling 311.

The second round of rebate checks is contingent on the City Council’s approval. DOF will mail the next round of $400 rebate checks on or near October 1st, 2005.