Good news for New Yorkers! One more tax relief program is about to hit the state and that will soon bring checks of up to $1,407 for the homeowners in the state. For many families, this unexpected windfall is again courtesy of the STAR tax relief program, which helps families shoulder the burden of school taxes.
What exactly is a STAR check? Although the STAR (School Tax Relief) program is not one of the new initiatives a few years ago, its popularity has surged among the homeowners, particularly during the hard economic times. In its essence, STAR helps mitigate local tax bills for low-income families. Thanks to this relief, families can channel their earnings to meet other daily needs. Under STAR, there are two types of checks this year:
- STAR Basic: for homeowners satisfying the common income limit, up to $778 is available;
- STAR Enhanced: more generous payments with a wider average of $1,407, for lower-income individuals who also meet additional criteria. This additional support is meant to cover those with mild incomes who actually need it more than others.
How do you get your check?
To get the money into your pockets, one has to enroll in the program. Luckily for everyone, it is not a hard process! You can simply log onto the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website and apply online or simply call 518-457-2036 to find assistance should you have any queries. Once you fill out the application and establish your eligibility, the check will be in the mail almost before you know it. Note that if you are applying for an Enhanced STAR benefit, you must provide proof of your income annually. So make yourself a reminder for yearly renewal!
The Universal STAR benefit is available to any individuals with an annual income below $250,000, and the applicant therefore does not have to be aged-spliced. The Enhanced STAR is, however, maximal in benefit but with much stricter qualifying criteria. To qualify for Enhanced STAR:
- One must be 65 years of age or older.
- One must own property of which it is their primary residence.
- One must have reached the age of 65 years before December 31, 2024—at least one family member in the case of joint ownership.
- One must have a combined income that does not exceed $93,000—this includes total income from all owners and any spouses residing on the property.
To assist in determining your eligibility, check your federal or state income tax returns for tax year 2022, specifically federal Form 1040 for Adjusted Gross Income (line 11) and New York State Form IT-201 (Resident Income Tax Return).
STAR check matters
School taxes can creep up on quite a heavy burden, and with the prices of daily goods always escalating, assistance offered to families can go a long way. This said tax relief can act upon many families by relieving some of their financial troubles, offering easier breathing space.
When will you get your check?
If you’ve already applied for your check, you’re good to go, since distributions have already begun. You should get your check promptly if you have already verified your eligibility and registered. For those who haven’t received a check yet but think they qualify, now is the time to check your registration status or reach out to the STAR department for verification.
