Make sure you read the requirements ahead of time. Generally, you must file a New York State resident income tax return if you are a New York State resident and meet any of the following conditions.Eligibility. ❖ A student must be a continuous resident of New York State for one year immediately preceding the date of application AND. A homestead exemption is a legal provision that helps to reduce the amount of property taxes on owner-occupied homes. The home must be your primary residence. If you are the owner and reside at the property on January 1st, you qualify for Homestead Exemption that year. The property must be your primary residence. A Homestead Exemption is a legal provision that helps reduce the amount of property taxes owed on owner-occupied homes. Property tax returns must be filed with the county tax office between January 1 and April 1 of each year.