Nearly 3 million New Yorkers will receive more than $2 billion in property tax relief this summer and fall through the state’s School Tax Relief (STAR) program, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday.
But for most homeowners, the key question is simple: how much money will you actually get?
How much STAR pays homeowners and seniors
Most homeowners eligible for a STAR credit will receive between $350 and $600, according to the state.
Seniors receiving the Enhanced STAR benefit will typically see between $700 and $1,500 in relief.
In total, the program will distribute about $2.1 billion in relief to 2.78 million recipients statewide.
When the money is coming
STAR payments are already starting to go out and will continue statewide through the summer and fall.
Timing varies depending on where homeowners live and when local school tax bills are due. Areas including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse tend to receive payments earlier due to their tax schedules.
Homeowners can track their payment status or check eligibility at ny.gov/STAR.
Why some people get checks — and others don’t
STAR benefits are delivered in two ways:
Many newer participants or those enrolled in the credit program receive payments directly rather than through bill reductions.
How to get your payment faster
The state is encouraging homeowners to sign up for direct deposit through the Homeowner Benefit Portal in the Tax Department’s Online Services system.
Officials recommend enrolling at least 15 business days before local school tax due dates to ensure timely delivery.
Homeowners can also:
Where the money is going
The STAR program is delivering relief across every region of New York:
What’s next
The state will also launch regional STAR seminars beginning in July to help homeowners sign up and maximize benefits.
More information is available through the state’s STAR Resource Center.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Property tax relief is on the way for nearly 3 million New Yorkers. How much could you get?
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By New York Connect Team, USA Today Network | USA TODAY Network
