Westchester Property Tax rates have shifted dramatically in 2026, with the County Board recent approval reducing the levy increase to 3.7% after an initial 5.27% proposal, saving homeowners roughly $3 each month while staying within the state tax cap. Residents can apply the Westchester tax assessment calculator on the official tax maps portal to estimate their bill, see itemized school district tax levy amounts, and compare rates across municipalities such as Greenburgh or Scarsdale. The Westchester County Tax Commission lists online payment options, including direct bank transfer and credit card, with tax payment due dates typically falling on April 30 2026 for most towns. Homeowners qualifying for exemptions, senior property tax relief, or STAR credits should consult the Westchester NY tax exemptions for homeowners page and submit applications to the Tax Commission before the grievance deadline on June 16 2026.
Westchester Property Tax appeal process begins by reviewing the tentative assessment roll released June 1 2026 and filing a grievance through the Westchester online tax portal or by contacting the Tax Commission at (914) 995‑4325. Successful appeals can lower assessments for condos, commercial real estate, or agricultural parcels, and may trigger eligibility for tax reduction programs or refunds. Property owners facing delinquency penalties must address liens promptly via the Westchester tax lien procedures outlined on the county website. For detailed guidance, the Tax Commission’s contact information, including email vlm2@westchestercountyny.gov and office location at 110 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Room L‑221, White Plains, NY 10601, is available to answer questions about tax credits, escrow portions, and future payment options.
Search Westchester County Property Tax
Westchester County keeps its property tax records on a public GIS portal. Residents can look up assessments, tax maps, and parcel details for any home in the county. The portal pulls data from the New York State Office of Real Property Tax Services (ORPTS).
Step-by-Step Search Method
- Open the official county tax map portal at https://giswww.westchestergov.com/taxmaps
- Select a municipality from the drop-down menu (such as Scarsdale, Greenburgh, or Yonkers).
- Enter the SWIS code, SBL number, or print key from a prior tax bill.
- Type the property address or owner name into the search bar.
- Click the parcel on the map to open its full record page.
- Review the assessment roll year, tax levy amount, and school district code.
- Download the tax bill PDF or print a copy for personal records.
Records You Can Find
- Current and prior year assessed values
- Property class code (residential, commercial, agricultural, vacant)
- School district and tax levy code
- Exemption amounts (STAR, senior, veteran, agricultural)
- Tax bill itemization showing county, town, and school portions
- Property map and lot dimensions
- Owner name and mailing address on file
Westchester County Property Tax Rates and Levy
The Westchester County Board of Legislators passed the 2026 county budget with a property tax levy increase of 3.7%, down from the 5.27% increase originally proposed by County Executive Ken Jenkins. The 5.27% figure was the level allowed by New York State, while lawmakers cut the final figure to 3.7% to stay closer to inflation while restoring funding for maternal health and childcare programs. For the average homeowner, the approved increase equates to roughly $3 more a month while remaining tax cap compliant.
2026 Budget Vote Results
| Budget Item | Proposed Amount | Final Approved Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Total operating budget | $2.5 billion | $2.5 billion |
| Property tax levy increase | 5.27% | 3.7% |
| Average monthly bill impact | Refer to original proposal | $3 increase |
| Tax cap compliance | At state cap | Below state cap |
Average Bill Impact Per Household
The approved 3.7% increase adds roughly $3 each month for the average homeowner. The originally proposed 5.27% increase would have translated to an average annual impact of $60 for every $500,000 in assessed property value. The tax cap in New York State limits how much a local government can raise its total levy each year, and the county stayed within the ceiling for 2026.
Tax Assessment Calculator and Itemized Bills
Homeowners use the Westchester tax assessment calculator to estimate their annual bill. The tool multiplies the assessed value by the local tax rate. Many towns assess property at a percentage of full market value, so the calculator asks for the assessment ratio to produce a fair estimate.
What the Calculator Shows
- Estimated county tax portion
- Estimated town or city tax portion
- Estimated school district tax portion
- Special district charges (fire, water, sewer)
- Total estimated annual bill
- Estimated monthly escrow amount
Reading Your Tax Bill
A Westchester tax bill breaks the total bill into separate line items. Each line shows the taxing jurisdiction and the amount owed. The county portion funds services like parks, public safety, and health programs. The school district portion often makes up the largest share of the bill. The town or city portion covers local services such as road repair and snow removal.
Exemptions for Homeowners
Westchester property owners can lower their tax bill through several exemption programs. Each exemption removes a fixed dollar amount or percentage from the assessed value. Per New York State guidance, exemption applications must be filed with the local assessor’s office, not the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance or the Office of Real Property Tax Services.
Common Exemption Programs
| Exemption Name | Who Qualifies | Type of Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Basic STAR | Primary residence owners | School tax credit on bill |
| Enhanced STAR | Seniors age 65+ with income limits | Larger school tax credit |
| Senior exemption | Owners age 65+ with income limits | Reduces county and town tax |
| Veteran exemption | Honorable discharge veterans | Fixed dollar reduction |
| Agricultural exemption | Active farmland owners | Partial assessment reduction |
Property Tax Appeal Process
Westchester property owners who think their assessment is too high can file a grievance. The appeal process starts when the tentative assessment roll is published each year. From that date, owners have a short window to challenge the value placed on their property.
Key Dates for Appeals
- Tentative assessment roll published: June 1
- Grievance filing deadline: June 16, 2026
Filing a Grievance
Homeowners file Form RP-524 with the local board of assessment review. The form asks for the requested full market value of the property and a reason for the reduction. Owners attach evidence such as recent sales of comparable homes, photos, or an independent appraisal. The board reviews each application and sends a decision by mail.
Payment Due Dates and Online Options
Westchester property tax bills have different due dates based on the town or city. For example, in Greenburgh, town and county taxes are due April 30 each year. School taxes follow a separate schedule set by each district. Late payments add interest and penalties to the bill.
Due Dates by Municipality
| Municipality | Tax Type | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Greenburgh | Town and county | April 30 |
| Scarsdale | Town and county | Refer to current roll |
| Yonkers | City taxes | Refer to city tax office |
| White Plains | City taxes | Refer to city tax office |
| New Rochelle | City taxes | Refer to city tax office |
Accepted Payment Methods
- Online bank transfer through the tax portal
- Credit or debit card payment (service fee applies)
- Check mailed to the tax receiver
- In-person payment at the tax office
- Escrow account paid by mortgage lender
Senior Property Tax Relief
Seniors in Westchester County can apply for several relief programs. The Enhanced STAR exemption provides a larger school tax credit for owners age 65 and older. Many towns also offer a senior exemption that reduces the county and town portion of the bill.
Eligibility for Senior Relief
The state sets income limits for the Enhanced STAR credit each year. Single filers and joint filers face different thresholds. The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance publishes the current numbers on its website. Property owners must apply with the local assessor and provide proof of age and income.
Required Documents
- Government photo ID showing date of birth
- Latest federal or state income tax return
- Proof of primary residence (driver’s license, voter registration)
- Social Security award letter (if applicable)
- Deed or mortgage statement showing ownership
Tax Reduction Programs and Credits
Several programs lower the tax bill for qualifying Westchester property owners. The School Tax Relief (STAR) program serves most primary residents. Income-based credits help lower-income households. Veterans and people with disabilities can access additional relief programs.
STAR Program Details
Basic STAR reduces the school tax portion of the bill for primary residents. New owners register directly with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Existing recipients renew automatically each year. Enhanced STAR offers a larger credit for seniors who meet income limits.
Other Available Credits
- Property tax credit for income-eligible homeowners
- Veterans property tax exemption
- Disability property tax exemption
- Cold War veterans exemption
- Agricultural district assessment reduction
Tax Lien and Delinquency Procedures
Unpaid Westchester property taxes become a lien on the property. The county can sell the lien or foreclose on the home to recover the debt. Interest and penalties add to the original amount. Property owners facing hardship should contact the tax receiver before the bill goes delinquent.
How Tax Liens Work
The county tax receiver records a lien against the property when taxes remain unpaid after the due date. The lien gives the county a legal claim on the property until the debt is paid. The owner can pay off the lien plus interest to clear the title. Buyers and lenders check for liens before any real estate closing.
Avoiding Delinquency Penalties
- Pay the full bill by the due date each year
- Set up auto-pay through the online tax portal
- Ask the mortgage lender to manage escrow
- Contact the tax office early about payment plans
- File for exemptions before the deadline
School District Tax Levy
School taxes make up the largest share of most Westchester property tax bills. Each school district sets its own annual levy within the state tax cap. Voters in each district approve or reject the proposed budget each spring.
Recent District Levy Examples
| School District | Proposed Levy Change | Tax Cap Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Vernon City SD | 1.5% increase | Below 2.6% cap |
| Chappaqua CSD | Tax rate at 2.69% | Within state cap |
Voting on School Budgets
School budgets come before voters in May each year. A simple majority approves the budget. Districts that go above the tax cap need at least 60% approval on the first vote.
Condo, Commercial, and Agricultural Assessments
Westchester assesses different property types under different rules. Condos are assessed as individual units with a share of the common area. Commercial properties are assessed at full market value. Agricultural land receives a special assessment under the Agricultural District program.
Assessment Rules by Type
- Residential: assessed at a percentage of market value set by the town
- Condominiums: each unit gets its own parcel ID and assessment
- Commercial: full market value assessment each year
- Agricultural: reduced value for active farmland in certified districts
- Vacant land: assessed based on permitted use and zoning
Appeal Differences by Property Type
Commercial owners often appeal based on income and expense data from the property. Residential owners typically use comparable home sales in the same neighborhood. Agricultural owners must show active farming operations to keep the reduced assessment.
Municipal Tax Variations Across Towns
Westchester tax rates vary widely between municipalities. The combined rate includes county, town, and school district portions. Cities like Yonkers and White Plains set their own rates inside city limits. Suburban towns like Scarsdale often have higher effective rates because of stronger school budgets.
Town and City Rate Examples
| Location | Approximate Rate | Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Chappaqua | 2.69% | Suburban town |
| Scarsdale | Refer to current roll | Suburban town |
| Yonkers | Refer to city rate | City |
| Greenburgh | Refer to current roll | Suburban town |
| Somers | Refer to current roll | Northern town |
Why Rates Differ
School district budgets drive most of the rate difference. Towns with highly rated schools tend to have higher tax rates. Services like trash pickup, road repair, and snow plowing add to the local portion. Fire districts and special districts add their own small levies on top of the main bill.
Tax Refund Eligibility
Westchester property owners can get a refund when an overpayment happens. Common reasons include successful appeals, duplicate payments, or exemption changes. Refunds go back to the person who paid the bill, not the current owner. Most towns issue refunds by check within a few months.
When Refunds Happen
- Successful assessment appeal
- Duplicate payment of the same bill
- Approved exemption applied after billing
- Court-ordered tax reduction
- Bank escrow overpayment
How to Claim a Refund
Property owners should file a refund request with the town or city tax receiver. The form asks for the bill number, payment dates, and reason for the refund. Owners attach proof such as bank statements, canceled checks, or appeal decision letters. The tax office reviews the request and issues payment if approved.
Mortgage Escrow Tax Portion
Many Westchester homeowners pay property taxes through an escrow account managed by their mortgage lender. The lender collects a portion of each monthly payment and pays the tax bill when it comes due. Escrow accounts make budgeting easier and prevent missed payments.
How Escrow Works
The lender estimates the annual tax bill and divides it by 12. The borrower pays that amount each month into the escrow account. The lender pays the bill from the escrow when it comes due. Annual escrow analysis shows whether the account has a surplus or shortage. Surpluses over a set limit go back to the borrower.
Annual Escrow Analysis
Lenders perform an escrow analysis once a year. They review the prior 12 months of tax payments and projected bills. A shortage means the borrower paid too little and owes the difference. A surplus means the borrower paid too much and gets a refund or credit. Major changes in tax rates or property value can shift the escrow balance.
Tax Cap Limits in New York
New York State limits how much local governments can raise their property tax levy each year. The cap is the lower of 2% or the national inflation rate. School districts and local governments can override the cap with a supermajority vote.
How the Tax Cap Works
Each year, the state calculates the cap based on the Consumer Price Index. Localities and school districts cannot grow their total levy above this cap without going to voters. Overrides need a 60% supermajority approval. The cap does not limit individual bills, so a single property can see a higher increase if the local levy rises overall.
Overriding the Tax Cap
- 60% voter approval needed for school districts
- Local government boards can approve override with proper notice
- Special circumstances allow certain exclusions from the cap
- Pension costs and some capital expenses can be excluded
- Override votes often happen in May with school budget votes
Official Resources and Portals
Westchester County Government
Official Website: https://www.westchestercountyny.gov
Note: As of March 2, the county transitioned its primary domain from westchestergov.com to WestchesterCountyNY.gov, with the previous address redirecting automatically to the new site.
County Tax Parcel Viewer (GIS Portal)
Direct Public Search Portal: https://giswww.westchestergov.com/taxmaps
New York State Department of Taxation and Finance
Real Property Tax Information: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/
Property Tax Forms: https://www.tax.ny.gov/forms/orpts_cur_forms.htm
For local assessor contact information, mailing addresses, and office hours, consult the official Westchester County municipal profiles or the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Municipal Profiles directory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Westchester Property Tax information helps homeowners and business owners understand their bills, find exemptions, and avoid penalties. The County Tax Commission provides an online portal, phone support, and in‑person help. Knowing rates, due dates, and appeal steps can save money and keep records straight.
What are the current Westchester property tax rates for residential parcels?
Rates vary by town and school district but generally fall between 1.8 % and 2.9 % of assessed value. For example, a home assessed at $300,000 in a town with a 2.4 % rate would owe $7,200 before exemptions. Check the tax map portal for the exact rate tied to your parcel.
How can I use the Westchester tax assessment calculator online?
Visit the tax map portal, enter the parcel’s SWIS number, and select “Assessment Calculator.” The tool pulls the latest assessment roll, applies the municipality’s rate, and shows the estimated bill. Review the result, then compare it to your posted statement to catch errors early.
Which exemptions are available for homeowners in Westchester?
Homeowners may qualify for STAR, senior, veteran, and agricultural exemptions. To apply, complete the appropriate form from the Tax Commission website and mail it to the address listed on the form. Approved exemptions appear on the next assessment roll, lowering the taxable value.
When must I pay my Westchester property tax bill?
Bills are due on April 30 each year. Late payments incur a 5 % penalty plus interest calculated daily. If you need more time, the County offers a payment plan that splits the balance into four quarterly installments.
What steps should I follow to appeal an assessment?
First, review the tentative assessment roll released June 1. If the value seems too high, file a grievance by June 16 with the Tax Commission. Include recent sales data, photographs, or a professional appraisal. The board will schedule a hearing and issue a decision within 60 days.
How do I pay my Westchester property tax online?
Log in to the online tax portal, enter your parcel ID, and choose a credit card, ACH, or e‑check. The system confirms the amount, generates a receipt, and updates your account instantly. Phone or mail payments remain options for those without internet access.