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By Amanda Greenwood
Associate News Editor
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Nearly 3 million New Yorkers will receive more than $2 billion in property tax relief this year through the state’s School Tax Relief (STAR) program, with payments and tax reductions rolling out through the summer and fall, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced.
Some homeowners will receive direct payments of up to $1,500, while others will see savings applied directly to their school tax bills.
At a time when housing and living costs remain elevated, the program offers financial relief to most owner-occupied households earning less than $500,000 annually.
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Who Gets the Money?
Eligibility is primarily determined by income and whether the property is a homeowner’s primary residence.
Seniors meeting lower income thresholds qualify for enhanced benefits.
Based on the state’s criteria outlined in the announcement:
- Most homeowners with incomes below $500,000 are eligible for STAR benefits
- Seniors qualify for enhanced benefits if their income falls below a lower threshold (around $110,000)
Residents enrolled in the STAR credit program generally receive benefits as a check or direct deposit. Others may receive their benefit as a reduction on their school tax bill.
The program is available statewide and is designed to help offset housing costs, particularly for seniors and households on fixed incomes.
How Much Will People Get?
Benefit amounts vary based on income and eligibility status:
- Most homeowners, with income below $500,000, will receive between $350 and $600
- Eligible seniors, with income below $110,750, will receive larger payments, typically between $700 and $1,500
The program will distribute more than $2 billion statewide, making it one of New York’s largest property tax relief initiatives this year.
When Will Payments Arrive?
The governor’s office says that payments have already begun to be sent out and will continue:
- Through the summer and into the fall
- Timed to align with local school tax deadlines
Because school tax schedules vary across New York, payment timing will differ by location.
Some homeowners will receive benefits earlier in the summer, while others may not receive them until later in the year.
What Should Readers Do Now?
Officials are encouraging homeowners to ensure they are properly enrolled and that their payment information is up to date.
- Confirm STAR enrollment to ensure eligibility for the tax credit
- Sign up for direct deposit where available
- Track payment status through the STAR portal.
Eligible homeowners who have not yet enrolled may still be able to apply.
The Key Takeaway
Millions of New Yorkers will receive property tax relief over the coming months through the STAR program, with some senior homeowners eligible for benefits of up to $1,500.
Whether that relief arrives as a payment or a tax reduction depends on income, enrollment status and how recipients participate in the program.
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