New York’s $2.2 Billion STAR Tax Relief Initiative

News Summary

Nearly three million New Yorkers will benefit from the $2.2 billion STAR program aimed at providing essential tax relief for homeowners and seniors. The program, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, offers tax exemptions and credits to eligible participants. Homeowners can register online to receive Basic or Enhanced STAR benefits based on specific eligibility criteria. Payments will be distributed throughout summer and fall, providing relief amid rising property taxes. This initiative emphasizes the state’s commitment to supporting residents with the financial burden of homeownership.

New York – Nearly three million New Yorkers are set to benefit from $2.2 billion in tax relief via the STAR (School Tax Relief) program this summer and fall, as announced by Governor Kathy Hochul last month. This initiative aims to provide essential property tax relief to eligible homeowners and seniors across the state.

The STAR program offers two forms of tax relief: a tax exemption for some recipients and a tax credit issued via check for others. The STAR tax credits began being distributed in June 2025 and will continue to be delivered throughout the remainder of the summer and into the fall months. Homeowners who wish to track their check delivery or enroll in direct deposit have the option to do so through the New York State website.

In order to benefit from STAR credits, homeowners are required to register online. This registration process is especially crucial for new homeowners or those who have not previously received STAR benefits. Once registered, homeowners can gain automatic access to either Basic or Enhanced STAR credits, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

The STAR program is split into two distinct categories: the Basic STAR program and the Enhanced STAR program. The Basic STAR program offers an exemption of the first $30,000 of a home’s full value from school property taxes for primary residences that are owner-occupied. To qualify, applicants must have an income limit of $500,000. Conversely, the Enhanced STAR program is tailored for senior citizens aged 65 and older, offering more significant benefits with an income cap set at $107,300 for the 2025-2026 school year. Those seniors will benefit from an exemption of the first $86,100 of their home’s full value from school property taxes.

It’s important to note that the STAR benefits specifically apply to school district taxes and do not extend to county, town, or city taxes in most cases. However, in cities such as New York, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, and Syracuse, STAR benefits do partially apply to city taxes.

Payments from the STAR program will be staggered, based on the local school district tax schedules, which means that the timing for receiving the checks can vary. Some municipalities anticipate distributing these checks from mid-July through mid-September, depending on local tax arrangements.

The introduction of this significant tax relief program underscores the state’s commitment to supporting its residents, particularly in the face of rising property taxes. Governor Hochul’s administration has highlighted the importance of the STAR program as a means to return financial benefits to the citizens of New York, thereby alleviating some of the burden associated with property tax expenditures.

As the summer progresses, affected homeowners are encouraged to explore their eligibility and to register for STAR benefits, thereby ensuring they can take advantage of this opportunity for financial relief. The STAR program stands as a crucial resource for many New Yorkers seeking to manage their homeownership costs more effectively.

For additional information or assistance regarding registration and benefits, homeowners can visit the official New York State website, which provides comprehensive details on the STAR program and the registration process.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Fox 5 NY: NY Tax Relief Checks
• Wikipedia: Tax Relief
• Democrat and Chronicle: NY STAR Checks
• Google Search: New York STAR program
• Rochester First: New York Tax Relief
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Property Tax
• Syracuse.com: STAR Checks Mailing
• Google News: New York property taxes