STAR question

We purchased our home in 2012, 2 months before getting married. We never received a tax bill since our mortgage pays the city directly (we are in Queens). Instead, at the end of the year we receive a notice of property value from the dept. of finance. I saw that we were receiving the exemption “Enhanced Star” and truthfully didn’t think anything of it. All I knew about STAR was that it was a tax discount and thought there was only 1 type. I had assumed the mortgage company had completed paperwork on our behalf since I had never filled anything out. It was a very hectic time for us when we purchased the house and honestly could not keep track of what we had or had not filled out. Fast forward to now. I received a letter in the mail stating we have been receiving the benefit since 2012 although there is no record of me ever applying. In order to continue receiving the benefit I have to complete the application attached. It wasn’t until then that I realized there are 2 types of STAR Exemptions. Apparently we had continued receiving the benefit from the senior citizen who we purchased the home from. Has this happened to anyone? Should we expect to receive a bill now retroactively? Should I just submit my application for Basic STAR and see what happens? I have tried calling 311 but they have not been helpful in the slightest.

Re: STAR question

This happened to us too, but we removed the Senior Citizen exemption when we bought the house and what a PIA that was! I never had such a problem to remove the exemption and pay more money! Can you imagine?

We noticed it right away and called our lawyer when we first bought our house and he told us to file for a new STAR application and make sure we follow up with the city. He said if we didn't, they would eventually catch up and yes, we would be responsible to pay the city back.