The state Department of Taxation and Finance offers a handy tool that lets you verify whether checks have started mailing to your municipality. You can find this tool online and use it to search for every school district and town in Onondaga County and beyond. If you haven’t already, it’s time to start watching your mailbox for your STAR property tax credit check.
School Tax Relief Program
In the city of Syracuse, for instance, the tool indicates that checks have already been issued. If you didn’t receive yours and you’re eligible, the department advises calling 518-457-2036 for assistance.
Meanwhile, in other parts of Onondaga County, checks haven’t started going out yet. For residents of the towns of DeWitt and Cicero, those living in the Jamesville-DeWitt or North Syracuse school districts can expect their checks between late August and mid-September.
- Visit the state Department of Taxation and Finance website.
- Use the provided tool to check the mailing status for your municipality.
- Note the expected mailing dates for your specific town and school district.
- If your check is delayed or missing, contact the department at 518-457-2036.
The STAR program, which stands for School Tax Relief, was initially designed to reduce the property tax bills for homeowners within their respective school districts. However, recent changes have been shifting STAR towards functioning as a credit.
Understanding the STAR Program Transition
This transition means that instead of receiving an immediate tax reduction upfront, homeowners now have to wait to receive a check from the state to benefit from the relief.
Basic STAR Program
The Basic STAR program offers a significant exemption by excluding the first $30,000 of a home’s full value from school property taxes for owner-occupied, primary residences. To qualify, homeowners must have an income limit of $500,000.
Enhanced STAR Program
For seniors aged 65 and older, the Enhanced STAR program provides an additional benefit. Those with incomes up to $98,700 or less for the 2024-2025 school year can take advantage of this program, which exempts the first $84,000 of a home’s full value from school property taxes for that school year.
Key Points to Remember
- STAR has shifted from an upfront tax reduction to a state-issued credit.
- The Basic STAR exempts $30,000 of home value with an income cap of $500,000.
- The Enhanced STAR benefits seniors with incomes up to $98,700, exempting $84,000 of home value.
Understanding these changes and the qualifications for each program can help homeowners maximize their tax relief benefits under the STAR program.