Apply Now for the STAR Program – Get $1,000 in Free Cash from a $2.3 Billion Fund

New Yorkers are getting a chance to ease their financial burdens with the School Tax Relief (STAR) Program, a statewide initiative that provides direct payments and property tax relief to millions of residents. With $2.3 billion in funds set aside for 2024, the STAR Program aims to help homeowners and seniors cope with rising living costs.

If you haven’t applied yet, don’t miss out! Here’s everything you need to know about the STAR Program, how much you can receive, and how to apply.

Amount

The STAR Program offers significant financial benefits for eligible homeowners and seniors. Here’s a breakdown of what you could receive:

• Direct payments of over $1,000 are being distributed to millions of New Yorkers.
• The program has already issued checks to around two million residents, with another million expected to receive theirs this fall.
• Homeowners with household incomes of $500,000 or less will receive several hundred dollars in property tax relief.
• Seniors aged 65 and older with household incomes below $98,700 are eligible for over $1,000 in relief funds this year.

The STAR Program is designed to help New Yorkers manage the ever-increasing cost of living, including school taxes, which are a significant burden for many families.

Who Qualifies

To be eligible for the STAR Program, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Homeowners: You must own your home and have a household income of $500,000 or less. Property tax relief amounts will vary based on income and other factors.
2. Seniors: For those aged 65 or older with a household income of $98,700 or less, you can qualify for over $1,000 in relief this year.

If you meet these requirements, you’re likely eligible for STAR payments, and if you haven’t received your funds yet, there’s still time to apply.

Payment Options

This year, the STAR Program introduced a direct deposit option through a new digital portal. Eligible residents can now opt to have their funds deposited directly into their bank accounts, offering a quicker and more convenient way to receive payments.

For those who prefer traditional methods, you can still receive a check in the mail. Additionally, you have the option to apply the funds directly to your annual school tax bill, ensuring your relief goes toward reducing future property tax payments.

Steps to Receive:

1. Direct Deposit: Use the STAR digital portal to sign up for direct deposit and get your payment faster.
2. Mailed Check: If you prefer, you can receive your funds via a mailed check.
3. School Tax Bill Credit: Apply your relief directly to your school tax bill to reduce the amount you owe.

Important Deadlines

All STAR funds are expected to be distributed by September 30, 2024, which aligns with the most common school tax due date across New York State. However, school tax due dates may vary by region. For example, residents of Long Island typically have a later due date in the fall. Make sure to check your local deadlines to ensure your payment is applied in time.

Dates

• September 30, 2024: All STAR payments will be distributed by this date.
• Long Island Residents: You may have a later school tax due date, so check your specific deadlines.

STAR Program

Governor Kathy Hochul has emphasized the importance of the STAR Program in providing financial relief to residents. As back-to-school season approaches, the STAR Program serves as a critical source of tax relief for working families, homeowners, and seniors across the state. The initiative is designed to counter the rising cost of living, which includes school taxes and everyday expenses.

Governor Hochul highlighted the state’s efforts to support New Yorkers, stating, “From tax credits to child care assistance to summer food benefits, we’re continuing to put more money back in the pockets of working New Yorkers to address the cost of living and help families across our state.”

Benefits

• Relief payments of over $1,000 for eligible seniors and homeowners.
• Opportunity to sign up for direct deposit for faster payment.
• Funds can be applied to reduce your annual school tax bill.

How to Apply

If you haven’t applied for the STAR Program yet, don’t worry—applications are still open! Visit the official New York Department of Taxation and Finance website to submit your application and register for direct deposit.

Here’s how you can apply:

1. Visit the STAR Program portal: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star/
2. Submit your application: Ensure that you provide all necessary information, including proof of income and homeownership.
3. Select your payment method: Opt for direct deposit or a mailed check, or choose to have the funds applied to your school tax bill.

By applying now, you can take advantage of this significant relief and join the millions of New Yorkers already benefiting from the STAR Program.

The New York STAR Program provides essential financial relief for homeowners and seniors, helping them manage rising property taxes and the overall cost of living. With over $2.3 billion allocated for the 2024 fiscal year, eligible residents can receive up to $1,000 or more in direct payments, with applications still open.

Whether you choose direct deposit or a mailed check, don’t miss your chance to apply and receive these benefits. Make sure to register through the STAR digital portal before September 30 to ensure you get your funds on time.

FAQs