Summer is not just about the sunshine and barbecues—this year, it is also bringing financial relief for millions of New York homeowners. If you live in the state, you could be receiving a STAR check in your mailbox very soon. And depending on where you live, it might be as much as $1,500.
What is the star check and who gets it?
The STAR check is part of New York’s School Tax Relief (STAR) program, which is designed to help homeowners offset their local school property taxes.
- It is a tax credit, not a loan, and you do not have to pay it back
- The program applies to eligible property owners who meet income and residency requirements
- There are two types of STAR benefits:
- Basic STAR, for homeowners under a certain income threshold
- Enhanced STAR, for seniors over 65 with lower incomes
- Basic STAR, for homeowners under a certain income threshold
If you are eligible, the check will come automatically—there is no need to apply again if you already receive STAR benefits.
How much money will you get from the star program?
The exact amount of your STAR check depends on where you live and whether you qualify for Basic or Enhanced STAR.
- Most Basic STAR recipients will receive between $350 and $600
- Enhanced STAR recipients can get between $700 and $1,500
Your payment is tied to your local school tax rates, so amounts vary widely across different counties in New York.
When will the star checks be delivered?
The STAR checks are being mailed out throughout the summer and fall. Delivery depends on your location and your local school tax bill due dates.
- If you live in New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, or Syracuse, you can expect your STAR check between late June and mid-July
- Other parts of the state will see payments later in the summer or early fall
All STAR check distributions begin this month, so keep an eye on your mailbox.
How much is your region getting?
New York has set aside $2.2 billion for the STAR program this year. About 3 million homeowners are expected to benefit. Here is a breakdown of how much each region is set to receive:
- Long Island: $698.4 million
- Mid-Hudson: $488.5 million
- Finger Lakes: $205.2 million
- Western New York: $178.5 million
- New York City: $158.6 million
- Capital Region: $144.5 million
- Central New York: $131.1 million
- Southern Tier: $109.6 million
- Mohawk Valley: $66.3 million
- North Country: $47.2 million
This funding will go straight into the hands of homeowners to help with rising living costs.
How can you track your star check or sign up for direct deposit?
If you are wondering when your check is coming—or want to sign up for direct deposit—you can visit the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website for updates.
- The state recommends using your STAR Credit Update tool to check your eligibility and payment status
- You can also call the department directly if you have questions or concerns about your payment
What has the state said about the star relief?
Governor Kathy Hochul shared the news earlier this summer, saying:
“Summer is here, and it also marks the start of STAR tax relief season for millions of New Yorkers. From tax credits to childcare assistance and much more, we continue to put more money in New Yorkers’ pockets.”
So if you are a homeowner in New York State, this summer might bring more than just a break from school—it could bring some well-earned tax relief, too.
