New York homeowners will soon benefit from a significant tax relief program. Nearly 3 million residents across the state will receive a property tax relief check as part of a $2.2 billion initiative funded by the School Tax Relief (STAR) program. The program, which provides tax relief to eligible homeowners and seniors, is expected to deliver financial relief at a time when many are struggling with the rising cost of living.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the checks will begin distribution next week and continue throughout the summer and fall. This program is particularly important for homeowners with incomes under $500,000, who are eligible for the STAR credit on their primary residence. With this relief, many residents will see a much-needed financial boost, giving them a little extra support in the coming months.
How Much Will Homeowners Receive?
The amount of the tax relief check varies depending on the recipient’s eligibility and status. Homeowners who qualify for the STAR credit are set to receive between $350 and $600. For seniors who qualify for the Enhanced STAR program, the checks will be larger, ranging from $700 to $1,500.
This program will not only provide relief to homeowners who are already receiving tax exemptions but also extend the benefits to others who will receive the relief via checks or direct deposits. The tax relief checks are meant to reduce the burden of property taxes, particularly for seniors who often face challenges on fixed incomes.
Statewide Distribution: Long Island Leads
The distribution of the STAR tax relief funds will be divided across the state, with the largest share going to Long Island. The region will receive $698.4 million, benefiting approximately 582,000 recipients. The Mid-Hudson region follows with $488.5 million for 404,000 recipients, and New York City will see $158.6 million distributed among 483,000 recipients.
This statewide distribution ensures that the relief checks are spread across New York’s diverse regions, addressing the needs of both urban and suburban residents. Homeowners in New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse will be among the first to receive their checks, with distributions expected to continue through mid-July. For residents in other parts of the state, payments will continue through the summer and into the fall.
https://www.silive.com/news/2025/06/nearly-3-million-new-yorkers-will-soon-receive-a-tax-relief-check-heres-how-much-youll-get.htmlExpanding Eligibility and Benefits
New York State’s Department of Taxation and Finance is encouraging all eligible homeowners to take full advantage of the program. Amanda Hiller, acting commissioner of the department, emphasized the importance of enrolling for the STAR program, especially for new homeowners who may not yet be receiving benefits. “If you’re a new homeowner or you are currently not receiving a STAR benefit on your primary residence, check out the Tax Department’s website to see how you can enroll and start saving,” Hiller said.
For those who already participate in the program, the tax relief checks will be delivered automatically via check or direct deposit. However, some residents may not be receiving the STAR benefit and will need to apply for enrollment to qualify for the relief.
Political Context: A Contrast with Federal Policies
The introduction of these relief checks comes amid broader discussions about tax policies at the federal level. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins pointed out that New York’s approach contrasts sharply with federal policies, which have often been criticized for favoring the ultra-wealthy. “While Washington advances tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy and mega-corporations at the expense of millions of working Americans, we in New York continue to champion the well-being of the middle class,” Stewart-Cousins said.
Similarly, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie emphasized that the relief checks will give families the freedom to decide how best to use their hard-earned money, particularly at a time when inflation and other financial pressures continue to impact New Yorkers. The checks, he stated, will allow families to make spending decisions that directly benefit their household needs.