Homeowners made an end-of-year dash to pay their property taxes Tuesday before the
new federal tax code takes effect.
News 12 Long Island was at the Hempstead Receiver of Taxes Office, where long lines stretched out the door.
On Friday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued an emergency order that allowed residents to pay their taxes early.
John Calandra says the combined school and property
taxes on his Wantagh home are more than $10,000.
"At least I can get the tax credit this year versus next year when I won't be able to get it the full amount. At least I can save some money," he told News 12.
Pre-paying in Nassau takes a little extra effort because general tax bills haven't been mailed out yet.
"Our IT department and tax staff worked out a system where we have the general tax numbers from Nassau County. We're looking it up and telling them what the taxes will be," says Hempstead Town Receiver of Taxes Donald Clavin.
Suffolk residents already have their tax bills.
Officials say it would be wise to check with a tax professional before considering early payment of taxes.