This summer and fall, New York homeowners will receive good news as the state begins issuing checks and credits through the School Tax Relief (STAR) Program.
This initiative will distribute a total of $2.2 billion to help alleviate the burden of school property taxes, benefiting nearly 3 million residents.
For many, the arrival of these payments coincides with the back-to-school season, providing much-needed financial relief.
Although some New Yorkers have received their benefits in recent weeks, particularly in cities with July tax deadlines, others are expected to continue to receive checks or direct deposits until the end of the year. The STAR program provides critical support to households.
What is the NY Star stimulus payment?
It is a New York State program known as School Tax Relief that offers tax breaks to qualified homeowners. The program reduces school property taxes and has two categories:
Basic STAR: Available to homeowners who meet an income limit of $500,000 or less.
Enhanced STAR: For seniors aged 65 or older (or one of the spouses in the case of couples) with combined incomes of $107,300 or less for fiscal year 2025.
Who will receive property tax relief in August 2025?
Many of the payments were made between June and July, but the remainder will be distributed between August, September, and October. The individuals who will receive these payments must meet the following requirements:
STAR Credit:
Own and live in the home as your primary residence.
Have a total household income of $500,000 or less for the STAR credit.
Have a total household income of $250,000 or less for the STAR extension.
To be eligible for the Enhanced STAR credit:
Be 65 years of age or older by the end of the calendar year (you, your spouse or your sibling living on the property).
Be the owner and live in the home as your primary residence.
Have a total household income of $107,300 or less (for 2025 benefits).
