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Property Tax Exemption for Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Workers

Volunteer firefighters are the primary emergency responders for most neighborhoods in Schenectady County. Volunteers respond to fire alarms, rescue and medical calls at different levels, and help their communities through environmental and natural disasters.

Schenectady County Legislature Maxes Out the Property Tax Exemption for Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Workers.

Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers can apply for a county property tax exemption for 10% of the total value of their primary residence.

“Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers are seeing an increase in call volume and the overall risk to their personal health, including the physical and emotional toll that serving takes. Expanding our property tax exemption is another way we can give back to our volunteers who sacrifice their time, health, and safety to provide a priceless service to our community.”

Anthony Jasenski, Chair of the Firefighting & EMS Committee

Apply for a County property tax exemption up to 10% of the total assessed value of your home.

Am I Eligible?

Active member of a Schenectady County Volunteer Fire Department or Ambulance Service

and

Serve for a minimum of two years

and

Live in the city, town, or village that is served by the fire company, fire department, or incorporated ambulance service they serve with.

Questions? Contact your local assessor.

“Our local departments are looking for volunteers to help meet the increased call volumes they are experiencing. This expanded benefit provides our local departments with another tool they can use to recruit and retain more volunteers." 

Legislator Tom Constantine, Chair of the Public Safety Committee 

Apply Today!

Apply Today!

Download and complete the Application for Volunteer Firefighter/Ambulance Workers Exemption. File the application for the county property tax exemption with your local assessor. 

Applications must be recieved by March 1, 2024, to be eligible for the expanded property tax exemption starting in January 2025.

Apply Today!
Answer the Call!

Answer the Call!

Most Schenectady County residents rely on their local volunteer fire department in times of crisis, and our county's volunteer firefighters are always there to help. Whether you're fighting a fire, responding to the scene of an accident, or helping your community through a state of emergency, volunteering with your local department is the ultimate form of community service. 

Become a Volunteer Firefighter Today!