While some New Yorkers have already received their STAR checks this summer, other homeowners are expected to see payments arrive later in 2026.
Almost 3 million residents will receive more than $2.1 billion in tax reliefthis summer and fall through the state's School Tax Relief, or STAR, program, which gives eligible homeowners a break on school property taxes.
Here's what you need to know - including how much money homeowners should expect and when they should see expected tax credit funds.
How much STAR pays homeowners and seniors
Most homeowners eligible for a STAR credit will receive payments ranging from $350 to $600. Seniors eligible for the Enhanced STAR program can expect checks between $700 and $1,500.
In all, the program will distribute about $2.1 billion in relief to 2.78 million
recipients within New York state in 2026, according to state officials.
The credit issued varies by the property location - by county, town and school district. For a better idea of what credit will be issued for you, go to tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star/comparison/ and click on your property's home county for a detailed chart on what your STAR credit or exemption should be for 2026.
When will homeowners see the money?
STAR payments are already being distributed and will continue to be sent statewide through the summer and fall.
Timing varies depending on where homeowners live and when local school tax bills are due. Areas including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse tend to receive payments earlier due to the municipalities' tax payment schedules.
Benefit season runs from June through November.
How to track your STAR credit
Homeowners can track their payment status or check eligibility at ny.gov/STAR.
Through the website, homeowners need to verify what county, school district and town the property is located in to receive a timeframe regarding the distribution month.
Why some people get checks — and others don’t
STAR benefits are delivered to eligible homeowners in two ways:
- Tax exemption: Applied directly to a homeowner’s school tax bill
- Tax credit: Paid as a mailed check or direct deposit
Many newer participants or those enrolled in the credit program receive payments directly rather than through bill reductions. No matter the method in which you receive the funds, the amount does not change.
How to get your payment faster
Those interested in direct deposit can enroll through the state's Homeowner Benefit Portal. Officials recommend enrolling as soon as possible. Homeowners who sign up fewer than 15 days before their credit is issued may still receive a paper check this year, with direct deposit beginning next year.
Homeowners can also:
- Track payments at ny.gov/STAR
- Check eligibility or enroll if newly eligible or new homeowners
Where the money is going
The STAR program is delivering relief across every region of New York:
- Long Island: $659.2M
- Mid-Hudson: $461.1M
- Finger Lakes: $193.7M
- Western New York: $168.5M
- New York City: $149.7M
- Capital District: $136.4M
- Central New York: $123.7M
- Southern Tier: $103.4M
- Mohawk Valley: $62.5M
- North Country: $44.5M
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Still waiting for your STAR check? Here's when it's coming and how much you'll get
