Changes to STAR (School Tax Relief Credit)

According to the New York State Department of Taxation & Finance, effective July 1, 2016, new STAR applicants will receive a credit in the form of a check directly from New York State instead of receiving a school property tax exemption.

Existing Basic and Enhanced STAR exemption recipients will continue to receive their school property tax exemption, seen on school tax bill, as long as they continue to own their current homes. The amount of your STAR benefit is the same, regardless of how you receive it.

New homeowners applying for Basic and Enhanced STAR can visit www.tax.ny.gov to check eligibility requirements. They will need to register with the New York State Tax Department to receive a STAR check, if they qualify. They can register by visiting the above website, or by calling 518-457-2036. Any questions or requests for additional information should be directed to the New York State Department of Taxation & Finance.