Thousands of New Yorkers are waiting on STAR rebate checks—but some may not see them until the end of the year. Now, the state has launched a tool to help you track your STAR rebate status by county, town, and school district.
Here’s what you need to know about payment timing, eligibility, and how much you might receive.
When will STAR rebate checks arrive?
If you qualify for a STAR exemption, the tax break shows up directly on your school property tax bill. Some homeowners have already received this savings.
If you signed up for a STAR credit check or opted into direct deposit, your payment will arrive soon—though exact dates vary by region.
To check your status or enroll in direct deposit, visit ny.gov/STAR.
How to check your STAR rebate status
The state has created a lookup tool where you can:
- Enter your county, town, and school district
- See your estimated delivery window
- Confirm if your benefit is listed as a check, deposit, or tax exemption
This is the fastest way to find out when your STAR money is coming.
How much money will you get?
The amount varies based on your local school tax rates, but here’s a general guide:
- Basic STAR credit: $350–$600
- Enhanced STAR credit (for seniors): $700–$1,500
Regional totals for 2025 STAR payments:
- Long Island: $698.4 million
- Mid-Hudson: $488.5 million
- Finger Lakes: $205.2 million
- Western New York: $178.5 million
- New York City: $158.6 million
- Capital Region: $144.5 million
- Central New York: $131.1 million
- Southern Tier: $109.6 million
- Mohawk Valley: $66.3 million
- North Country: $47.2 million
Do you qualify for a STAR rebate?
You may qualify if you meet the following:
Basic STAR:
- Own a primary residence in New York
- Household income is $500,000 or less (for STAR credit)
- Or $250,000 or less (for STAR exemption)
Enhanced STAR (Seniors):
- At least 65 years old
- Primary residence in New York
- Income is $107,300 or less (for 2025 benefits)
Should you switch to the STAR credit?
Yes—many homeowners could benefit.
If you’ve owned your home since before 2015, you likely receive a STAR exemption (directly off your tax bill). But switching to the STAR credit could lead to larger savings, because:
- STAR credit payments can increase by up to 2% annually
- STAR exemptions do not increase
To switch, visit the STAR program page and follow the instructions to update your registration.
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.