The state of New York has officially launched the second phase of the School Tax Relief program, widely known as STAR, which is being described as a New York stimulus payment for homeowners. This round of payments is expected to reach millions of residents across the state, helping to ease the pressure of high school tax bills.
Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that the program is designed to put money directly into the hands of families at a time when many households are struggling with rising costs.
What is the STAR Program?
The STAR program is a financial relief initiative that reduces the amount of property taxes homeowners must pay toward funding local schools. Instead of paying the full tax bill, eligible residents receive either a direct check or a credit applied against their school tax obligations.
This targeted relief functions much like a stimulus payment by giving New Yorkers more money back in their pockets while ensuring school districts remain supported.
Calculate Your 2026 COLA Increase →Who is Eligible for the Phase Two New York Stimulus Payment?
Eligibility for phase two STAR deposits depends on school tax deadlines in local communities. Homeowners will qualify if:
- They live in districts where school tax bills are due in August or September 2026.
- They meet state residency and property ownership requirements.
- They fall within the income limits set for STAR program participation.
Seniors with enhanced STAR benefits will continue to receive higher relief amounts compared to standard STAR recipients.
New York Stimulus Payment Amounts
Payments will vary based on eligibility category:
- Standard STAR recipients: $350 to $600.
- Seniors with enhanced STAR: $700 to $1,500.
These amounts will either be sent as a direct deposit to bank accounts or mailed as paper checks, depending on the homeowner’s setup with the state’s Department of Taxation and Finance.
New York Stimulus Payment Dates for Phase Two
Phase two STAR deposits will be issued throughout August and September 2026, matching the due dates of local school taxes. This means eligible homeowners should expect to see their payments around the same time their property tax obligations are scheduled.
Governor Hochul’s Statement
Governor Kathy Hochul underlined the importance of the STAR program, stating:
“The STAR program provides much-needed school tax relief to millions of New York homeowners. My administration is putting money back in the pockets of families with checks and credits that continue to reach hundreds of thousands of homeowners across the state.”
The New York stimulus payment under the STAR program will deliver direct relief to millions of homeowners this August and September. With payments ranging up to $1,500 for seniors, phase two deposits are a vital financial boost for families navigating high living costs.
