Applying for the first time? Start here.
Members of the Defreestville and Wynantskill fire departments can use this page to request district service certification and prepare a volunteer property tax exemption application. You need the NYS application and the appropriate district certification. The District certifies your service; your local assessor determines eligibility and processes the exemption.
1. Confirm requirements with your assessor
Before completing the forms, ask the assessor for the municipality where your property is located about eligibility, the filing deadline, and any supporting documents needed. Have your property address, tax bill, and service history available.
2. Request the correct district certification
Contact Sean Kerwin, Secretary/Treasurer, at Email Sean Kerwin or call the District office at 518-283-5506. Provide your name, department, and years of service. Ask which certification applies and how to have it completed. The Secretary’s signature and date are for the District to complete.
NGFD-1: Two or more years of service
This form certifies enrolled membership, two or more years of service, and satisfaction of the District’s minimum service requirements.
NGFD-2: Twenty or more years of service
This form certifies enrolled membership, twenty or more years of service, and satisfaction of the District’s minimum service requirements. Ask the District and assessor whether it is the appropriate certification for your application.
Each certification is a separate, one-page PDF. The NGFD-2 document has a footer labeling error that says “2+ Year”; its main text and form number identify the 20-year certification. Contact the Secretary if you are unsure which form to use.
Example
If you have four years of service, ask the District about NGFD-1. If you have twenty-five years, ask about NGFD-2. You do not need to download both just because both appear here. The service period alone does not establish eligibility for the tax exemption.
3. Complete the NYS application
Download RP-466-a-vol below. Complete the applicant and property information and answer the eligibility questions. Follow the signature instructions for all owners, and leave the assessor-only section for the assessor.
4. Submit the application and signed certification together
Submit the NYS application and the District-completed certification to your local assessor by the applicable taxable status date. Confirm the deadline and accepted delivery method with that office. Keep copies of what you submit. Sending a certification request to the Fire District does not file your tax exemption application.
Who can help?
For service records, choosing a district form, or a District signature: Sean Kerwin, Secretary/Treasurer. For property eligibility, filing deadlines, submission, or application status: your local assessor.
Official NYS application and instructions · District contact information