New York Governor Hochul announced on Wednesday (June 18th) as part of the School Tax Relief (STAR) program, this summer through early fall, approximately three million New York residents will receive a total of $2.2 billion in property tax refunds. Eligible homeowners will start receiving refund checks next week, with the refund amount varying based on income and age group.
The STAR refund amounts are divided into two categories: regular homeowners (with incomes below $500,000) will receive refund checks ranging from $350 to $600; senior citizens (those aged below $107,300) will receive $700 to $1,500 in refund checks, falling under the “Enhanced STAR” program.
Some beneficiaries have already received their refunds in the form of tax reductions, but most people will receive paper checks through mail during the summer and autumn.
Governor Hochul stated in a release, “Summer is here, and it’s the season for millions of New Yorkers to receive their STAR tax refunds. We are continuously providing funds back to the people through refunds, childcare subsidies, and other measures.”
Amanda Hiller, Acting Commissioner of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, encourages those who have not yet claimed their refunds to register as soon as possible. “If you are a new homeowner or have not applied for STAR benefits at your primary residence, please visit our website to see if you are eligible and register promptly to save on property taxes.”
Citizens can register for direct deposit through the Department of Taxation and Finance’s “Homeowner Benefits Portal” (https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/homeowner-benefit-portal.htm). Future refund payments will be automatically deposited into their bank accounts, eliminating the need to wait for and cash paper checks.
It is important to note that if registration is done within 15 days before the refund distribution, paper checks will be received for that year. Direct deposit will begin from the following year.
For inquiries on refund progress or to apply for direct deposit of refund payments, please visit the official website: ny.gov/STAR.