$600 surprise checks land soon: Millions may cash in under ‘STAR’ Program windfall

Millions of Americans may get direct payments automatically under a property tax relief program. Several states are giving property tax relief this year, with checks worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. In New York, the STAR (School Tax Relief) Program has been running since 1997 and will continue in 2026, according to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.

STAR program details

The STAR program has two versions — an exemption and a credit. The exemption reduces the school tax bill directly, while the credit is paid as a check or direct deposit. The credit amount changes depending on the school district where a homeowner lives, as stated by The Sun. To qualify, residents must own or rent a property such as a house, condo, co-op apartment, manufactured home, or farmhouse.

Who can qualify for STAR

The property must be the person’s primary residence to qualify. The combined income of the homeowner and spouse must be $500,000 or less for eligibility. There are two types of STAR credits — Basic STAR and Enhanced STAR. Basic STAR is for homeowners under age 65 with household income of $500,000 or less. Enhanced STAR is for homeowners aged 65 or older with income limits around $98,700 to qualify.

Payment amount range

Basic STAR payments usually range between $250 and $500. Enhanced STAR payments often range from $600 to $650, as noted by The Sun. Credit amounts usually increase by around 2% every year. Homeowners can check exact payment amounts using a lookup tool on the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website.

When money arrives

Checks are usually mailed or deposited by late June or sometime in the fall. Residents can use the STAR Credit Delivery Schedule tool by selecting county, school district, and city to see timing. People who moved or never received the credit before must register online through the NY Homeowner Benefit Portal.

Applications can be submitted anytime, but applying by June 15, 2026 helps ensure payments arrive on time. Residents in North Dakota may also qualify for property tax relief credits worth up to $1,600, according to The Sun. Another round of $400 checks is going out to some residents in Montana who applied before an extended March deadline.

FAQs

Q1. Who can get the STAR check in New York?

Homeowners in New York who live in their primary residence and meet income limits may qualify under the STAR (School Tax Relief) Program.

Q2. When will STAR payments be sent?

Checks or direct deposits are usually sent between late June and fall, depending on the school district.