In a major step to ease the burden of inflation on working families and senior citizens, the State of New York is offering financial assistance through its School Tax Relief (STAR) Program, with payments reaching up to $1,500. The initiative is part of the state’s broader economic support measures aimed at protecting homeowners from rising living costs, especially property taxes.
Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed the launch of the 2025 STAR payment season, stating that more than two million residents will benefit from either a direct check or a property tax exemption. Depending on eligibility, most households will receive between $350 and $600, while seniors qualifying for Enhanced STAR could get up to $1,500.
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New York Families to Receive Up to $1,500 in STAR Tax Relief
The STAR program is designed to lower school property taxes for homeowners across New York. As inflation impacts essential household costs like groceries, fuel, and housing, this annual credit acts as a direct offset to those pressures. The state reimburses local school districts for the tax reduction, ensuring school funding remains stable.
This year’s relief is particularly critical, as average property tax bills in New York exceed $5,000, among the highest in the country. The STAR program aims to reduce this amount for eligible households, allowing families to free up funds for basic needs and seasonal expenses.
Eligibility and Benefit Structure Explained
There are two main types of STAR benefits: Basic STAR and Enhanced STAR, each tailored to different groups of residents.
| Benefit Type | Eligibility Criteria | Estimated Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Basic STAR | Income under $500,000; primary residence required | $350 – $600 |
| Enhanced STAR | Age 65+; Income below $98,700; primary residence required | $700 – $1,500 |
The Basic STAR program targets middle-income families, while Enhanced STAR is specifically designed for senior homeowners with limited income. Payments are calculated based on local school tax rates and property values.
How and When Payments Will Be Issued
Eligible recipients may receive their STAR benefit in one of two ways: as a reduction on their school property tax bill or as a direct payment through check or direct deposit. The delivery method depends on whether the homeowner is enrolled in the STAR Exemption Program (pre-2015 applicants) or the newer STAR Credit Program.
| Distribution Method | Applies To | Form of Relief |
|---|---|---|
| STAR Exemption | Enrolled before 2015 | Property tax bill reduction |
| STAR Credit | Enrolled after 2015 | Direct deposit or mailed check |
Most payments are being processed automatically between June and September 2025, requiring no action from previously enrolled recipients.
Statewide Rollout Covers Urban and Rural Areas
The STAR benefit reaches both major cities and rural counties. Cities like New York City, Buffalo, Albany, and Syracuse are part of the program’s expanded 2025 implementation. This wide coverage ensures that the state’s support is not limited to metropolitan regions alone.
To qualify, new applicants must apply through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, submitting proof of income, ownership, and primary residency.
A Timely Relief Measure for Over 2 Million Homes
With inflation still affecting families across all income levels, New York’s STAR program offers structured and recurring financial relief. By reducing the school tax load and issuing timely payments, the state is providing a stabilizing force for homeowners during a period of economic uncertainty.
As the program continues its rollout this summer, eligible residents are advised to watch for credits on their tax bills or direct deposits in their accounts.
