ITHACA, N.Y. — The Tompkins County Legislature has introduced new legislation to broaden property tax relief for older residents by significantly increasing income eligibility limits for partial exemptions.
Known as Local Law No. “a” of 2026, the measure seeks to assist residents age 65 and older in managing rising living costs, allowing them to remain in their homes. County officials noted that the expansion aligns with the “Health & Safety” goals of the county’s Strategic Operations Plan, specifically addressing the needs of the aging population.
The law amends Chapter 150 of the Tompkins County Code to implement a graduated sliding-scale tax exemption.
New Exemption Tiers
Under the amended code, the percentage of assessed valuation exempt from taxation decreases as income levels rise:
- 65% Exemption: Available to owners with an annual income of less than $3,000.
- 50% Exemption: Available to those with an annual income between $(M – \$1,000)$ and $M$.
- 20% Exemption: Applies to incomes between $4,800 and $5,700.
- 5% Exemption: The minimum tier, available for incomes between $7,500)$ and $8,400.
The shift follows recent authorization from the New York State Legislature, which granted counties the power to increase percentage limits for these specific exemptions under the state’s Real Property Tax Law.
The legislation includes a standard severability clause, ensuring the law remains valid even if a court finds specific portions of it unconstitutional.
The local law is set to take effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State and will apply to all property assessment rolls filed after that date.
