New York Homeowners: STAR Refund Check Coming Soon

Nearly 3 million New York homeowners will receive a share of more than $2 billion in property tax relief payments this year through the state's STAR program.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced this week that about 2.78 million homeowners across New York will receive a combined $2.1 billion in STAR benefits through checks and direct deposits this summer and fall.

The governor said the payments are part of the state's effort to help families and seniors manage rising costs and make living in New York more affordable.

What is the STAR Program?

The School Tax Relief program, better known as STAR, helps offset local school property taxes for eligible homeowners. The benefit is available only for primary residences, including single-family homes, condominiums, cooperative apartments, and manufactured homes.

Officials also used the announcement to remind homeowners that many people who qualify may not realize they are eligible.

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Enrollment is not automatic. Homeowners must register to receive the benefit, but once approved, eligibility is reviewed each year. Benefits for 2026 are based on income reported on 2024 tax returns.

How Do You Receive The Credit?

Some homeowners receive STAR as a reduction on their property tax bill, while others receive a check or direct deposit. Homeowners who purchased their property after 2015 generally receive the credit as a payment rather than an exemption on their tax bill.

The funding was included in New York's recently approved state budget and is intended to provide relief as homeowners continue to face increasing costs across the state.