Financial help for homeowners and seniors in October 2025
Thousands of New York homeowners this October could be getting some sorely needed money from the state’s STAR Program. The School Tax Relief program—simply known as STAR—is issuing payments up to $1,500 to qualified homeowners, families, and seniors across the state.
With living costs and property taxes continuing to rise, this program seeks to offer a financial respite to residents who live in New York. For individuals, that little bit extra can be a lifesaver as the calendar ticks around to the close of the year.
What is the New York STAR program?
The School Tax Relief (STAR) program is created to help reduce the property tax burden on homeowners who use their property as their primary residence. The main purpose is to help New York families and seniors in their capacity to own their home with high school tax rates.
It offers two types of benefits:
- Basic STAR – Qualified to homeowners of all ages with moderate to middle incomes.
- Enhanced STAR (E-STAR) – Only for seniors age 65 and older with limited income.
Depending on what applies to you, the STAR credit appears as a tax credit, a check directly deposited to you, or a tax credit deducted from your school property tax bill.
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Eligibility requirements for October 2025
You don’t automatically qualify, so it pays to know who’s eligible for each form of the STAR program.
For basic STAR
- You need to own and live in the home as your primary residence.
- The combined income of all owners and spouses who live in the home must be $500,000 or below per year.
- There is no age limit, so this choice works for young families or working homeowners.
- The dollar figure of the benefit will be based on your school district and local rates.
For enhanced STAR:
- You must be age 65 or older as of December 31, 2025.
- Your combined annual income can be no more than $107,300.
- The property must be your sole residence.
- This additional benefit can be up to $1,500, making it especially valuable to retirees and fixed-income seniors.
How to apply for the STAR program
It’s easy to apply for the STAR benefit, but deadlines vary by county—so don’t wait.
New registrants can register online at the New York State STAR Program website. You will be required to provide basic documents such as proof of income, proof of ownership, and proof of residence.
If you’re already on STAR benefits, you don’t have to renew annually. However, you should update your information—especially if your income, property ownership, or residency has changed—to prevent your benefit from being cut off.
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How will my STAR benefit be paid?
New members will generally receive their STAR benefit as a tax credit that can be paid out either by check or direct state deposit.
If you’re already in the program, you may choose to remain with your current tax exemption or switch to a tax credit, where you’ll receive your benefit in hand—usually faster and more convenient.
Tips to Ensure You Receive Your Payment
Verify your income level before applying so you can ensure you meet the requirements.
If you’re receiving Basic STAR and are approaching age 65, consider converting to Enhanced STAR so you can get a higher payment.
Maintain your address and residency information current so you don’t experience any delay with mail or miss payments.
Because many counties shut applications early within the year, apply early to secure your spot.
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Bottom line
The STAR program is one of the most beneficial homeowner relief provided by New York, especially during lean times. You’re an income-earning family or a retiree on a fixed income, and this October can give you up to $1,500 in direct tax relief—just don’t forget to check if you qualify and apply by your local deadline.
