As the new school year kicks off, many New Yorkers are looking forward to a familiar benefit: the STAR credit check. The School Tax Relief (STAR) program, a state initiative designed to help New York homeowners, provides significant tax relief by reducing school property tax payments.
If you’re a homeowner in New York State, it’s worth checking whether you qualify for this benefit, as it can lead to major savings on your annual school taxes.
STAR Program
The STAR program was created to assist homeowners in managing their school tax burden. By either reducing the amount of property tax owed or providing a check for eligible homeowners, the program ensures that New Yorkers have financial relief when it comes to funding their local school districts.
STAR provides tax credits or exemptions depending on the homeowner’s income and property value. The program essentially serves as a buffer against the rising costs of school taxes, which can be a significant portion of property expenses.
Types of STAR Benefits
There are two types of STAR benefits available to homeowners:
- Basic STAR: This is for homeowners whose annual income is $500,000 or less.
- Enhanced STAR: Designed for seniors, this benefit is for homeowners 65 and older with incomes below a specific threshold.
The Enhanced STAR benefit has its own income limits, which adjust yearly. For 2024, the income cap is $98,700, while in 2025, it will increase to $107,300.
Who is Eligible?
Homeowners across New York who meet certain income and residency conditions are eligible for STAR. To qualify for the STAR credit or exemption, your property must be your primary residence, and your combined household income must not exceed $500,000. Enhanced STAR requires that at least one homeowner is 65 years or older, and the income limit for this group is lower than that of Basic STAR.
It’s also important to note that each homeowner must register for the STAR credit. If you qualify, your benefit will either be applied directly to your school tax bill or provided in the form of a rebate check.
Benefit Delivery
The STAR credit checks are typically mailed or deposited between August and December, depending on when you applied and qualified. Most homeowners receive their relief around September, allowing them to apply the credit toward their fall school tax payments.
The amount of the STAR benefit depends on the assessed value of your home and the tax rates in your school district. The STAR program is designed to provide meaningful relief to all homeowners, though the benefit varies based on location.
Average STAR Savings by County
Here’s a quick snapshot of how much STAR can save homeowners across New York:
| County | Basic STAR Savings | Enhanced STAR Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Albany | $1,885 | $2,695 |
| Nassau | $2,300 | $3,200 |
| Suffolk | $2,000 | $2,900 |
| Monroe | $1,500 | $2,000 |
| Erie | $1,600 | $2,100 |
Note: Actual savings will vary based on your municipality and school district.
How to Apply
Applying for STAR benefits is simple. Homeowners must register online through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website. The application process is user-friendly and ensures that all eligible residents can quickly claim their benefit. If you’re unsure whether you’ve registered, you can also check your registration status online.
For those who want to see how much they might save, the Department of Taxation and Finance provides a tool where you can input your county and school district to determine your exact benefit.
Don’t Miss Out!
In 2022 alone, nearly 2.26 million New Yorkers received Basic STAR benefits, while another 670,000 benefited from the Enhanced STAR program. With savings that could range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on your location, it’s essential to make sure you’re not missing out on this valuable financial relief.
Whether you’re in Albany, Nassau, or another part of the state, the STAR program offers a direct way to reduce your school property tax burden. Make sure you’re registered to receive your STAR credit or exemption before the deadline passes.
It’s a simple, effective way to take advantage of a benefit designed to ease the financial pressure of being a homeowner in New York.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Basic STAR?
Homeowners with a household income of $500,000 or less qualify for Basic STAR.
What is the income limit for Enhanced STAR in 2024?
In 2024, the income limit for Enhanced STAR is $98,700.
When do STAR credit checks get delivered?
Checks are typically sent between August and December, most commonly in September.
Can you apply for STAR online?
Yes, homeowners can register for STAR online through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website.
How much can I save with STAR?
Savings vary by county and district, but they can range from $1,500 to over $2,500.
