Governor Kathy Hochul announced that nearly 3 million New York homeowners will receive over $2 billion in tax relief this summer and fall through the state’s School Tax Relief (STAR) program. Most homeowners eligible for a STAR credit will receive checks between $350 and $600, while most seniors eligible for Enhanced STAR will receive checks between $700 and $1,500, according to the governor’s announcement made June 16.
The STAR program provides property tax relief to eligible homeowners and seniors across New York State. Checks have already begun being mailed and will continue to arrive throughout the summer and fall, with delivery timing based on each area’s school tax deadline. Eligible recipients can track their check delivery or enroll in direct deposit at ny.gov/STAR.
The program operates in two forms: some STAR recipients receive a tax exemption that reduces the taxable value of their home for school taxes, while others receive a tax credit delivered as a check or direct deposit. The STAR program was established in 1998–1999 and has since become one of New York’s primary tools for property tax relief. For homeowners who have been receiving the exemption since 2015 or earlier, that benefit continues. New applicants and those purchasing homes after 2015 receive the credit form instead.
Long Island will receive the largest share of this year’s STAR relief, with $659.2 million going to 572,000 recipients, according to the regional breakdown provided by the state. The Mid-Hudson region will receive $461.1 million for 397,000 homeowners, while New York City will distribute $149.7 million to 474,000 recipients. The Capital District, Central New York, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Southern Tier, and Western New York will also receive significant allocations totaling over $630 million combined.
To ensure timely delivery, homeowners can enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit program through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance’s secure Online Services system. Those who enroll at least 15 business days before their local school tax due date are guaranteed to receive their benefit by direct deposit. The state is also holding regional STAR seminars throughout the summer, with the first session scheduled for Erie County on July 7, to help homeowners understand the program and maximize their benefits.
Sources
- Governor Kathy Hochul (.gov) — Official announcement of nearly 3 million New Yorkers receiving over $2 billion in STAR tax relief, including payment ranges and regional breakdown
- CBS News New York — Confirmation of $350–$600 payment range for most homeowners and timing of check arrivals
- HousingWire — Report of $2.1 billion in property tax relief to 2.78 million homeowners and seniors
- Department of Taxation and Finance (.gov) — Information on STAR program structure, eligibility, and how the exemption and credit forms operate
