Nearly 3 million New Yorkers are set to receive more than $2 billion in property tax relief through the state’s School Tax Relief (STAR) program this summer and fall. If you’re eligible for a STAR credit, state officials say there’s a way to get your money faster: sign up for direct deposit.
The state is encouraging homeowners to enroll in direct deposit through the Homeowner Benefit Portal in the Department of Taxation and Finance’s Online Services system.
To ensure payments arrive as quickly as possible, officials recommend signing up at least 15 business days before your local school tax due date.
Homeowners can also track their payment status, check eligibility and enroll in STAR at ny.gov/STAR.
How much money will you get?
Most homeowners eligible for a STAR credit will receive between $350 and $600, according to the state.
Seniors receiving the Enhanced STAR benefit typically receive between $700 and $1,500.
In total, New York expects to distribute about $2.1 billion in relief to 2.78 million recipients statewide.
When STAR payments are arriving
STAR payments have already started going out and will continue throughout the summer and fall.
The timing depends on where you live and when local school taxes are due. Homeowners in areas including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse are expected to receive benefits sooner because of earlier school tax deadlines.
Why some homeowners get checks and others don’t
STAR benefits are delivered in two ways:
Many newer participants and homeowners enrolled in the STAR credit program receive payments directly rather than seeing a reduction on their tax bill.
STAR relief by region
Long Island is expected to receive the largest share of STAR relief at $659.2 million, followed by Mid-Hudson at $461.1 million.
Other regional totals include:
What’s next?
The state plans to hold STAR seminars beginning in July to help homeowners enroll and maximize benefits. The first session is scheduled for Erie County on July 7, with additional events planned throughout the summer.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Want your NY STAR payment faster? Here’s how to get your money sooner
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By New York Connect Team, USA Today Network | USA TODAY Network
