You can get information about your property tax benefits, including: Application status, Current benefit amounts, Proposed benefit for the upcoming tax year. What is the homestead tax option?A. It is a local option to establish two separate property tax rates: a lower tax rate for residential property owners. Exemption applications must be filed with your local assessor's office. See our Municipal Profiles for your local assessor's mailing address. Homestead exemption protect property assets from probate. Properties recognized under laws of homestead are off-limits to creditors seeking attachment. If there are multiple properties, please complete and return the Additional Property Information and Certification, on page. 4. In New York, the homestead exemption applies to real property, including your home, condominium, or co-op. It also applies to a mobile home.