NY Alternative Veterans Property Tax Exemption

NYS Real Property Tax Law / Erie County

Available Veteran Housing

About This Program

NY Alternative Veterans Property Tax Exemption is available to homeowners in Buffalo, NY.

Three exemption options for qualifying veterans: Alternative Veterans Exemption (wartime service), Cold War Veterans Exemption, or Eligible Funds Exemption (purchased with veteran benefits). Apply once with your local assessor. Cannot stack multiple exemptions, choose the best one.

Qualifying military service, residential property

Verified against NYS Real Property Tax Law / Erie County's official page on 2026-06-17.

Data last verified 2026-04-01. How we verify our data.

In Buffalo, NY, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • Three options: Alternative, Cold War, or Eligible Funds Exemption
  • For residential owner-occupied properties
  • Apply with Erie County Assessor by March 1 (most jurisdictions)
  • Cannot stack multiple veteran exemptions, choose the best
  • Stacks with STAR for additional property tax relief

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

716-858-8333

A grant-savvy contractor in Buffalo, NY can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Buffalo early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Your federal tax return for the year of the work (this benefit is claimed on your taxes, not through a separate application).
  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • Proof of military service (DD-214) and, for disability-based grants, your VA disability rating letter.
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: File with Erie County Assessor by March 1

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

Email us about this program

Frequently asked questions

Who qualifies for NY Alternative Veterans Property Tax Exemption in Buffalo?

NY Alternative Veterans Property Tax Exemption is open to homeowners in Buffalo, NY. It has no income limit. It serves veterans and military families.

How do I apply for NY Alternative Veterans Property Tax Exemption in Buffalo, NY?

Apply directly with NYS Real Property Tax Law / Erie County using the official program link on this page or call 716-858-8333. There is no middleman and no fee. Deadline: File with Erie County Assessor by March 1.

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Find More Programs in Buffalo, NY

This is just one of many grants, rebates, and free programs available. Stack them together to maximize your savings.

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