If you’re a homeowner in New York, it’s time to check your mailbox for your School Tax Relief (STAR) property tax credit check. The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance offers a helpful online tool to verify whether checks have started mailing to your area. Here’s what you need to know about the STAR program, how to check your status, and when to expect your payment.
School Tax Relief (STAR)
The STAR program was initially created to reduce property tax bills for homeowners within their school districts. However, it is now transitioning to a credit system where eligible homeowners receive a check from the state instead of an immediate tax reduction.
Checking the Status
The Department of Taxation and Finance provides a tool on its website to check whether checks have been mailed to your specific municipality. This tool covers all school districts and towns, including those in Onondaga County and beyond. Here’s how to use it:
- Visit the Department’s Website: Use the Department of Taxation and Finance website to access the tool.
- Search Your Municipality: Enter your town and school district to see if checks have been mailed.
- Monitor Your Mailbox: If checks have been mailed, keep an eye on your mailbox for your STAR check.
- Contact for Assistance: If you are eligible but haven’t received your check, contact the department at 518-457-2036 for help.
Mailing Updates
- Syracuse: According to the tool, checks have already been mailed in the city of Syracuse. If you haven’t received yours yet, consider reaching out for assistance.
- Other Onondaga County Areas: In other areas like DeWitt and Cicero, checks have not been mailed out yet. Residents of the Jamesville-DeWitt or North Syracuse school districts can expect their checks between late August and mid-September.
STAR Program Transition
The STAR program is transitioning from an upfront tax reduction to a state-issued credit. This means homeowners now wait to receive a check rather than seeing an immediate reduction in their property tax bills. Knowing these changes is key to maximizing your tax relief.
Basic STAR Program
The Basic STAR program offers property tax relief by excluding the first $30,000 of a home’s full value from school property taxes. This program is available to homeowners who:
- Use the property as their primary residence.
- Have a household income limit of $500,000 or less.
Enhanced STAR Program
The Enhanced STAR program is designed for senior citizens (aged 65 or older) and provides more substantial relief:
- Seniors with incomes up to $98,700 for the 2024-2025 school year can qualify.
- This program exempts the first $84,000 of a home’s full value from school property taxes for the school year.
Key Points
- The STAR program now operates as a state-issued credit rather than an immediate tax reduction.
- Basic STAR exempts $30,000 of home value with a maximum income limit of $500,000.
- Enhanced STAR benefits seniors with incomes up to $98,700, exempting $84,000 of home value.
- Use the Department of Taxation and Finance’s online tool to check the status of your STAR check and verify mailing dates.
Knowing these changes will help homeowners navigate the updated STAR program and maximize their tax relief.
FAQs
How do I check if my STAR check has been mailed?
Use the tool on the New York Department of Taxation and Finance website.
When can residents of DeWitt and Cicero expect their STAR checks?
Between late August and mid-September.
What does the Basic STAR program provide?
It exempts the first $30,000 of a home’s value from school property taxes.
Who qualifies for the Enhanced STAR program?
Seniors aged 65+ with an income up to $98,700 for 2024-2025.
What should I do if my check is delayed or missing?
Contact the Department of Taxation and Finance at 518-457-2036.
