Governor Hochul Announces Nearly 3 Million New Yorkers to Receive Over $2 Billion in Tax Relief This Summer and Fall

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly three million New Yorkers across the state will receive over $2 billion in tax relief this summer and fall through New York's School Tax Relief (STAR) program. STAR provides property tax relief to eligible homeowners and seniors statewide. While some STAR recipients will receive their benefit in the form of a tax exemption this year, many other recipients will receive a tax credit and will be sent a check in the mail this summer and fall.

"The start of summer is also the start of STAR tax relief season for millions of New Yorkers," Governor Hochul said. "From tax credits and energy rebates to our expanded child tax credit and middle class tax cuts, we're continuing to put more money back in New Yorkers' pockets."

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, "At a time when actions in Washington are increasing costs and reducing support for working families, seniors, and homeowners, New York is continuing to put affordability first. The Senate Majority was proud to work with Governor Hochul to include continued funding for the STAR program in this year's State Budget, delivering meaningful property tax relief to homeowners across our state. As STAR checks begin reaching eligible New Yorkers, this assistance will help families keep more of their hard earned money and better manage everyday expenses. Today's announcement reflects our shared commitment to putting money back in people's pockets, strengthening economic security, and ensuring New Yorkers have the support they need to better manage the rising cost of living. I encourage all eligible homeowners to enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit Program to receive this important benefit quickly and securely."

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, "This $2 billion in tax relief is vital to our families and our seniors. As New Yorkers see the high cost of gas and rising prices, the STAR program will put money back into their pockets. We will continue to work with our partners in government to put New York families first and make our state a more affordable place."

Most homeowners eligible for a STAR credit will receive a check between $350 and $600. Most seniors eligible for an Enhanced STAR credit will receive a check between $700 and $1,500.

Check deliveries have begun and will continue statewide throughout the summer and fall. STAR recipients can visit ny.gov/STAR to track their check delivery or enroll in direct deposit.

New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller said, "We want every eligible homeowner to take advantage of the STAR program. If you're a new homeowner, or you are currently not receiving a STAR benefit on your primary residence, check out the Tax Department's website to see how you can register and start saving."

Regional breakdown of this year's STAR property tax relief:

REGION	STAR TAX RELIEF	RECIPIENTS
Capital District	$136.4 million	238,000
Central New York	$123.7 million	173,000
Finger Lakes	$193.7 million	274,000
Long Island	$659.2 million	572,000
Mid-Hudson	$461.1 million	397,000
Mohawk Valley	$62.5 million	99,000
New York City	$149.7 million	474,000
North Country	$44.5 million	86,000
Southern Tier	$103.4 million	153,000
Western New York	$168.5 million	314,000
TOTAL	$2.1 BILLION	2.78 MILLION

Homeowners who are eligible and registered for the STAR credit program will receive their STAR check before the deadline for their school taxes. Some parts of the state - including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse - have school tax due dates in late June and July and will receive their STAR benefits soon. Benefits across other parts of the state will continue to roll out throughout the summer and fall.

STAR recipients can visit ny.gov/STAR for a delivery schedule. Homeowners can also enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit program through the Homeowner Benefit Portal within the Tax Department's secure Online Services system.

To ensure homeowners receive their STAR credit by direct deposit this year, they should enroll as soon as possible. To guarantee timely delivery by direct deposit, homeowners should sign up at least 15 business days before their local school tax due date.

This year, starting in July, the Tax Department is holding regional STAR Seminars. In these sessions, people can learn how to sign up for STAR and maximize their benefits. The first session is in Erie County on July 7. The sessions will run through the summer.

For the STAR seminar schedule and more information on the STAR program, visit the Tax Department's STAR Resource Center.

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State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, "Property taxes often decide whether a family can stay in the home they have lived in for decades. That burden weighs heaviest on seniors living on fixed incomes. STAR is real relief, and it arrives when households need it most. I thank Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and Speaker Heastie for prioritizing it year after year."

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. said, "STAR Tax Relief provides support to the people who keep our communities thriving - our homeowners and our seniors. As the first round of checks are being distributed, I encourage eligible New Yorkers to sign up for direct deposit to receive the funds quickly and securely. This program reflects an ongoing commitment to smarter, faster, and fairer aid for those who need it most. I appreciate Governor Hochul's focus on assisting those who are struggling with affordability in our state."

State Senator Gustavo Rivera said, "In the middle of an affordability crisis, approximately three million eligible homeowners across our State will receive a STAR property tax relief that will help minimize one of their biggest household expenses. I want to thank Governor Hochul for prioritizing this benefit program. I encourage Bronxites to reach out if they need assistance with STAR and other property tax freeze programs."

State Senator James Sanders Jr. said, "At a time when New Yorkers are feeling the strain of rising costs, the STAR program continues to be one of the most effective tools we have to deliver real, immediate relief. This next phase means thousands of homeowners in Southeast Queens and across the state will see money returned to their pockets when they need it most. I applaud Governor Hochul for advancing this critical support and ensuring that seniors, working families, and longtime homeowners can remain rooted in the communities they've built. This is government doing what it should - easing burdens and helping people."

State Senator Leroy Comrie said, "For many homeowners in Southeast Queens, rising costs continue to place pressure on household budgets. The STAR program provides meaningful property tax relief that helps families, seniors and longtime residents remain in the communities they have worked hard to build. I encourage all eligible homeowners to take advantage of this benefit and enroll in direct deposit to ensure they receive their STAR credit as quickly and securely as possible. At a time when affordability remains one of the top concerns I hear from constituents, programs like STAR help provide real relief and greater financial stability for New York families. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to helping New Yorkers."

State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, "At a time when many families are facing rising housing and living expenses, the STAR program continues to provide critical tax relief for homeowners and seniors. I encourage all eligible New Yorkers to enroll and sign up for direct deposit so they can receive their STAR benefits as efficiently as possible and keep more money in their pockets. I would also like to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued commitment to easing the financial burden on New Yorkers and ensuring that homeowners and seniors have access to the resources they need to remain in their homes and communities."

State Senator Pete Harckham said, "With the cost-of-living squeezing family budgets, this next phase of the STAR program delivers property tax relief when New Yorkers need it most. By putting up to $1,500 back into the pockets of our seniors and working families, we are keeping our communities affordable and helping our neighbors stay in their homes. Thank you to Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the State Legislature for continuing with this important financial commitment."

State Senator Jessica Ramos said, "At a time when so many families are feeling the pressure of rising costs, every dollar matters. I commend Governor Hochul for continuing to invest in programs like STAR, which provide meaningful relief to homeowners, help families remain in their communities, and strengthen their financial stability. By putting money back into the pockets of New Yorkers, we are helping make our state more affordable for working families, seniors, and homeowners."

State Senator Monica R. Martinez said, "The STAR program is providing millions of New York State families with meaningful tax relief this year. This assistance helps ease one of the financial burdens associated with homeownership and gives families greater flexibility in managing their household budgets. As these benefits begin reaching homeowners, I encourage all eligible residents to enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit Program and thank Governor Hochul for working with the Legislature to continue providing this support for property owners across our state."

State Senator James Skoufis said, "The STAR program has been a lifeline for families and seniors across New York. With inflation continuing unabated and gas prices through the roof, millions of New Yorkers are more reliant than ever on property tax relief. I'm grateful to the Governor for her support of this program, and I join her in encouraging all eligible homeowners to enroll."

State Senator Robert Jackson said, "At a time when too many New Yorkers are fighting to remain rooted in the homes and communities they helped build, meaningful relief matters. Tax relief is not an abstract promise when it reaches the kitchen tables of working families, seniors, and homeowners. The STAR program reflects a simple but powerful principle: public dollars must serve the public good by easing the burdens people feel most. I commend Governor Hochul and the Legislature for working together to deliver practical relief that strengthens household stability and demonstrates what responsive, people-centered government looks like."

State Senator Rachel May said, "Property taxes are one of the biggest expenses many homeowners face, so any relief can make a real difference. The STAR program helps families, seniors, and homeowners keep more money in their pockets and provides some breathing room as they deal with the rising costs of everyday life. Thank you to Governor Hochul for continuing to deliver tax relief for homeowners across Central New York."

State Senator Cordell Cleare said, "The STAR Program is one of the most essential mechanisms we have to ensure that our Older New Yorkers can age in place, with dignity and love, in the community of their choosing. I am heartened that this process is underway; combined with enhancements to SCRIE and SHE passed by the Legislature and Governor Hochul in the FY 2026-27 Budget we can finally say to our Seniors that they are our number one priority."

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, "The STAR program is one of many ways we are tackling affordability in New York and making our state a place where everyone is able to live and thrive. With billions in relief being sent out, including millions for the Finger Lakes region, I want to thank Governor Hochul for putting money back in the pockets of New Yorkers and for her commitment to increasing the quality of life across our state."

State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, "Property tax relief is on the way to homeowners across the Mid-Hudson Valley and Capital Region, and I'm proud to have fought to make it happen. The STAR program is a major help for seniors and working families to ease the burden of rising costs and put money back into the pockets of homeowners. This is how government should work, and I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to this program. I'll keep fighting to deliver the tax relief New Yorkers deserve."

State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton said, "One of my top priorities as a legislator will always be making sure that everyday, hardworking New Yorkers are able to afford where they live, and programs such as STAR offer one way for homeowners to get some financial relief. My office works with my constituents daily to ensure that as many eligible people as possible apply for this program, and I am glad that soon they'll be seeing these checks arrive. From families to older adults, we must continue prioritizing putting money back into our neighbors' pockets. Thank you to Governor Hochul for remaining committed to programs that alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by taxpayers statewide."

State Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, "Homeownership is how many New Yorkers invest in their communities, plan for the future, and build generational wealth. By extending the STAR program, Governor Hochul is helping eligible homeowners and seniors hold onto more of what they earn while making it easier to receive that relief through direct deposit. This is meaningful support for households working to stay rooted in the places they call home."

State Senator April N.M. Baskin said, "Homeownership remains one of the most important ways families build stability and wealth, and I thank Governor Hochul for continuing to deliver meaningful property tax relief through the STAR program to homeowners across New York, including hundreds of thousands of residents in Western New York. As household costs continue to rise, this assistance eases financial pressure for working families and older New Yorkers, allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned money and remain in their homes and communities."

State Senator Siela Bynoe said, "The STAR program is a valuable resource that allows eligible New York residents to manage their property taxes. In 2025, over 582,000 Long Island residents benefited from approximately $698.4 million in STAR tax relief, putting money back into the pockets of hardworking families. For residents of Senate District 6, these savings can make a meaningful difference in easing the cost of living."

State Senator Patricia Fahy said, "Amidst the worst affordability crisis since 2008, families are struggling and looking for relief now more than ever. I'm thrilled that more than $2 billion is being put back in the pockets of eligible homeowners across the state, including our seniors, and that tens of thousands of Capital Region families will benefit from the STAR program, helping to keep them in their homes. If you haven't already, make sure to enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit Program! I want to thank Governor Hochul and my legislative colleagues for once again funding a program that provides tangible, direct relief for so many here in our Capital Region."

State Senator Sam Sutton said, "As families struggle with rising costs, this program provides much-needed relief for the homeowners and seniors throughout our community. For residents on fixed incomes, middle-class families, and longtime homeowners, these savings can make a real difference and help them stay in the homes and neighborhoods they have worked so hard to build. I am grateful for Governor Hochul's continued commitment to providing meaningful tax relief for New Yorkers, and I encourage all eligible residents to enroll in direct deposit so they can receive their STAR benefits faster and more conveniently."

State Senator Erik Bottcher said, "As New Yorkers continue to grapple with the high cost of living, programs like STAR provide important relief that helps homeowners and seniors remain in the communities they call home. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to delivering meaningful property tax relief to millions of New Yorkers through this vital program. For many older adults and middle-class homeowners in New York City, these benefits can make a real difference, and I encourage everyone who is eligible to take advantage of the STAR program and explore direct deposit options to receive their benefits as quickly and conveniently as possible."

State Senator Jeremy Zellner said, "With the cost of living continuing to rise, property tax relief can make a meaningful difference for homeowners and seniors. The STAR program puts money back into people's pockets and helps families across Western New York afford the communities they've worked hard to call home. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to making New York more affordable."

Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said, "At a time when many New Yorkers are facing rising costs and increasing financial pressures, programs like STAR provide meaningful relief to homeowners and seniors across our state. I thank Governor Hochul and Assembly Democrats for their continued commitment to affordability and for ensuring that eligible New Yorkers can access this important tax relief. New York is committed to making life more affordable for working families, homeowners, and seniors. I encourage every eligible New Yorker to enroll and take advantage of the support available to them."

Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, "At a time when affordability is on the mind of all New Yorkers, I thank Governor Hochul for continuing to support the STAR Program that helps homeowners and seniors with the costs of property taxes. I encourage all homeowners to check their eligibility and make sure they are signed up. STAR and Enhanced STAR can help provide immediate relief from property taxes."

Assemblymember Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, "Through the STAR program, Governor Kathy Hochul is putting money back into the pockets of Western New York homeowners and seniors. I implore new applicants to apply as soon as they can."

Assemblymember Michael Benedetto said, "As affordability remains a challenge for many New Yorkers, this tax relief will help put money back into the pockets of homeowners and seniors. I applaud Governor Hochul's continued commitment to providing this important relief and encourage all eligible residents to sign up to receive their benefits quickly."

Assemblymember Charles D. Lavine said, "I applaud the continued efforts of Governor Hochul to address the affordability crisis affecting Nassau County residents. This round of STAR tax relief comes at a time when families are being crushed by rising costs and confront federal assistance program cuts that they rely on to make ends meet. This relief payment to residents represents real financial relief at the right time.

Assemblymember David Weprin said, "I commend Governor Hochul for advancing the next phase of this critical tax relief, which will provide much-needed support to millions of New Yorkers this summer and fall. For many middle-class families, seniors, and homeowners, every dollar matters, and these savings will help ease the burden of property taxes and deliver meaningful savings. I encourage all eligible residents to ensure they are enrolled and take advantage of the relief available to them."

Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, "Making New York more affordable for our seniors and middle-class families is one of my highest priorities. The STAR Tax Relief Program, funded through the New York State budget, will deliver relief to thousands of residents in Monroe County and the City of Rochester, putting much-needed money back in people's pockets as we head into the summer months. I am proud to have worked alongside my State Legislative colleagues and Governor Hochul to continue this critical tax cut."

Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh said, "New Yorkers will soon be receiving checks for the STAR Tax Relief program, a program that I gladly support in the New York State budget year after year as it lowers taxes for homeowners. One way to receive your check faster is to enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit Program and I encourage our residents to enroll. Affordability is top of mind for many, and this program puts money back in New Yorkers' pockets and is an important benefit for our homeowners. Thank you to Governor Hochul for continuing to support this program."

Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara said, "Owning a home is about more than having a place to live. It's about building a future, raising a family, and putting down roots in a community. Programs like STAR help make that possible by providing property tax relief to homeowners and seniors. For many families, that extra savings can help with everyday expenses, home improvements, or planning for the future. It also helps homeowners maintain their properties, strengthen their neighborhoods, and continue investing in the communities they call home. I thank Governor Hochul for supporting important initiatives like STAR across New York State."

Assemblymember Steve Otis said, "STAR is an important way Governor Hochul, the Assembly and Senate budget state dollars to lower costs for New York families. Established decades ago, Basic STAR and Enhanced STAR help reduce the burden of school property taxes across the state. The focus of our adopted state budget was to address affordability issues for New York families through a range of state programs. This year's announcement of our continuing STAR commitment is a reminder for property taxpayers to check and make sure they are receiving eligible benefits."

Assemblymember Latrice Walker said, "The Assembly Majority and Governor Kathy Hochul have prioritized initiatives that help to make New York State a more affordable place to live. The School Tax Relief (STAR) program aligns with that goal, providing much needed relief to millions of homeowners in our state. More than 474,000 people in New York City alone will receive nearly $149.7 million in tax relief. As state lawmakers, we have to do everything in our power to put money back into the pockets of our fellow New Yorkers - especially in light of inflation and an ongoing financial strain created by funding cuts in Washington."

Assemblymember Rebecca A. Seawright said, "With affordability remaining a top concern for New Yorkers, the STAR tax credit provides critical relief for homeowners and older adults facing rising costs. For many seniors living on fixed incomes, this assistance helps make it possible to remain in their homes and communities. I commend Governor Hochul for continuing to prioritize programs that put money back into the pockets of hardworking New Yorkers and support aging in place."

Assemblymember Pamela J. Hunter said, "The STAR program continues to provide meaningful relief for homeowners, seniors, and families across New York State. At a time when affordability remains one of the top concerns for the people I represent, this program helps ease the burden of school property taxes and puts money back where it belongs: in the pockets of New Yorkers. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the Legislature for continuing to prioritize real, direct support for working families and older residents."

Assemblymember Phil Ramos said, "Long Island is home to more STAR recipients than any other region of New York, making this program an important source of tax relief for homeowners across Suffolk and Nassau counties. At a time when families are facing higher costs for everyday necessities, the STAR benefit helps ease the burden of property taxes and puts money back into household budgets. I appreciate Governor Hochul's continued commitment to affordability and to helping Long Islanders remain in the communities they proudly call home."

Assemblymember Carrie Woerner said, "Affordability is a top issue for New York residents. These school tax credit programs are a welcome relief for so many people struggling to pay for the high cost of food, housing, and childcare. I'm proud to have worked with my Assembly Majority colleagues and the Governor, to help both new and existing homeowners receive some needed tax relief."

Assemblymember Robert Carroll said, "The STAR program provides much needed financial benefits to millions of households throughout our state. I commend Governor Hochul for her ongoing commitment to make New York more affordable for all and ensuring that the STAR program, which is especially vital for working families and seniors, is expeditiously implemented."

Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato said, "This is the type of real results that New Yorkers need - and once again it's Governor Hochul who is stepping up to provide this beneficial financial relief. The STAR program isn't just a check, it's a way of helping millions of homeowners in New York maintain economic stability and truly puts money back into people's pockets which our Governor has continued to do time and time again."

Assemblymember Pat Burke said, "Working families are being squeezed by rising costs on everything from groceries and gas to utilities - but the STAR program puts money back into homeowners' pockets and helps seniors stay in their homes. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul and my colleagues in state government for continuing to prioritize affordability and deliver meaningful relief to millions of New Yorkers."

Assemblymember Judy Griffin said, "Hardworking families, seniors, and new homeowners in Nassau County deserve meaningful property tax relief. Through the state-funded School Tax Relief (STAR) program, eligible local households will once again see direct school property tax savings this year. I appreciate the Governor for her efforts in easing the burden for property taxpayers."

Assemblymember Karen McMahon said, "The STAR program continues to provide meaningful relief for homeowners across New York State, helping families and seniors to manage rising costs. As the first round of STAR checks are distributed, eligible residents can look forward to receiving financial support that will make a real difference in household budgets. As always, eligible homeowners who are not already enrolled are encouraged to sign up and take advantage of this valuable tax relief program. I thank the Governor for taking these steps to make New York more affordable."

Assemblymember Sarah Clark said, "The STAR program continues to be one of the most important tools we have to provide direct relief to homeowners and strengthen affordability for families and older New Yorkers across the state. By helping reduce the burden of property taxes, this program allows more residents to remain in their homes, investing in their communities and building strong neighborhoods. I am grateful for Governor Hochul's continued focus on affordability and her commitment to delivering meaningful support that allows homeowners to thrive throughout our state."

Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson said, "At a time when Southeast Queens seniors and working class families are faced with increasing costs of living, it remains a top priority of mine to help provide the 31st Assembly District with ongoing financial relief. That is why I'm excited to join Governor Hochul in announcing that the first round of STAR Tax Relief checks will soon be arriving in mailboxes and direct deposit accounts of small homeowners across the state. Putting money back into the pockets of our communities will help reduce the burden of school property taxes, and provide New Yorkers with the relief they need to help make ends meet."

Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, "Property tax relief is on the way for Rochester homeowners and seniors. As school tax due dates approach, these STAR credits will provide direct financial relief-ranging from several hundred to over a thousand dollars for eligible households. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in delivering this critical funding, which serves as a vital investment in keeping our communities affordable and stable."

Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar said, "Today, we are putting money back where it belongs: in the pockets of New Yorkers. Through the STAR tax relief program, millions of homeowners are receiving billions of dollars in financial relief at a time when every penny counts. Under Governor Hochul's leadership, this program is delivering tax exemptions and checks worth up to $1,500, providing $150 million to half a million households in New York City alone. Relieved of the burden of property taxes, working families and seniors keep more of their hard earned money and strengthen their financial security. This is exactly what people first government looks like, making New York more affordable, expanding opportunity, and helping families build a brighter, more secure future."

"From tax credits and energy rebates to our expanded child tax credit and middle class tax cuts, we're continuing to put more money back in New Yorkers' pockets."

Governor Kathy Hochul

Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said, "I commend Governor Hochul and the Legislature for providing this much-needed relief to homeowners and seniors throughout New York State. As the cost-of-living crisis continues to place a significant burden on hardworking families, it is our responsibility as elected officials to pursue every available avenue to deliver meaningful property tax relief. On Long Island, the STAR program provides tangible savings that help homeowners, seniors, and families afford the rising costs of living while strengthening the financial stability of our communities."

Assemblymember Chantel Jackson said, "At a time when everyday necessities continue to rise in cost, this tax relief will put money back into the pockets of homeowners and seniors who need it most. From groceries and medications to utilities and transportation, STAR benefits provide meaningful support that helps families where every dollar counts. Here in New York City alone, nearly 474,000 recipients will receive approximately $149.7 million in tax relief, demonstrating the significant impact this program has on working families, older adults, and communities across our city. I thank Governor Hochul for continuing to prioritize affordability and deliver support to New Yorkers across our state."

Assemblymember Jen Lunsford said, "Helping New Yorkers keep more of their money is one of the most effective ways we can support families and seniors facing rising costs. The STAR Tax Relief Program provides meaningful property tax relief to those who qualify, and I encourage eligible residents who have not yet enrolled to learn more about the program and sign up so they can continue receiving the property tax relief they have earned. I appreciate the Governor's continued commitment of this relief to New Yorkers."

Assemblymember Amanda Septimo said, "Rising costs and federal inaction continues to put pressure on families across New York, especially in The Bronx, where too many households are feeling the strain of high rents, utility costs, food, and everyday living expenses. Programs like STAR provide meaningful relief by helping homeowners and seniors keep more money in their pockets. For many families, those savings can help cover groceries, utilities, childcare, and other essential needs. I thank Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the Legislature for continuing to prioritize tax relief that helps working families remain in their homes and communities. This investment is one tool that will deliver much-needed financial breathing room to millions of New Yorkers and help make our state more affordable for the families who call it home."

Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia said, "Every dollar counts for families in the Bronx. Thank you to Governor Hochul for delivering over $2 billion in property tax relief to nearly three million New Yorkers across the state through the STAR program. This summer, nearly 474,000 New York City residents will receive that relief, and I want to make sure every eligible homeowner in the 86th District is getting what they are owed. I encourage every eligible homeowner in the 86th District to visit ny.gov/STAR to track their check and enroll in direct deposit so they get their money as quickly as possible."

Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman said, "At a time when affordability remains one of the greatest challenges facing families in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Crown Heights, and communities across New York, programs like STAR provide meaningful tax relief that helps homeowners and seniors remain in the neighborhoods they have invested in, nurtured, and helped build over generations. Making New York more affordable requires practical solutions that put money back in people's pockets, protect housing stability, and ensure that longtime residents can continue to call our communities home. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to advancing affordability, and I am proud to support efforts that deliver this relief and encourage all eligible New Yorkers to enroll in direct deposit so they can access their STAR benefits quickly, securely, and without delay."

Assemblymember Brian Cunningham said, "In Crown Heights, Flatbush, and Prospect Lefferts Gardens families are stretched thin. Rent is up, groceries are up, and for far too many homeowners and seniors in District 43, staying in the home they worked their whole life for is becoming harder every year. That is unacceptable. The STAR program is direct, tangible relief and this year, New York City residents are receiving $149.7 million, reaching 474,000 hardworking New Yorkers across our city. I thank Governor Hochul for ensuring these dollars get out the door and into the hands of the people who need them most. If you have not yet enrolled in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit Program, do it today. This money belongs to you."

Assemblymember Edward Gibbs said, "Making New York more affordable means finding every opportunity to put money back into people's pockets. In East Harlem and communities across New York City, families and seniors are doing everything they can to keep up with rising costs and stay rooted in the neighborhoods they call home. Whether it's inflation refund checks, expanded tax credits, or STAR relief for homeowners and seniors, these programs deliver real help when people need it. I thank Governor Hochul for continuing to prioritize affordability and deliver relief directly to New Yorkers."

Assemblymember Nikki Lucas said, "Since entering the Assembly in 2022, I have proudly championed tax relief for New York's seniors, including passing bill A10141 in 2022 and 2024, legislation that extended critical tax credit protections for eligible older adults (SCRIE) and individuals with disabilities (DRIE). I am grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul for this historical expansion and budget inclusion of the Enhanced State Tax Relief (STAR) Program, which provides vital property tax relief to senior homeowners. For many older New Yorkers living on either fixed incomes, pensions, or retirement savings, increasing and rising property taxes can threaten their ability to afford to remain in their homes. In my district, 20 percent of the population are homeowners. The STAR Program will help ease the burden that would strengthen financial stability, and preserve the legacy of long-term homeownership for generations to come."

Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero said, "As families across New York continue to face rising costs, programs like STAR provide meaningful relief that helps homeowners keep more money in their pockets. With Governor Hochul's leadership and commitment to affordability, I'm proud that we passed a budget that continues to deliver tax relief for millions of New Yorkers, including hundreds of thousands of residents here in the Capital Region. Whether it's helping seniors stay in their homes or making homeownership more affordable, STAR is an important investment in the financial stability of our communities."

Assemblymember George Alvarez said, "From household expenses to property taxes, families and seniors are experiencing financial strains nearly every day. The STAR program provides the support homeowners need to keep more of their hard-earned money and remain rooted in the communities they have invested so much of themselves in. My office is committed to ensuring Bronx residents are aware of these benefits and have the support they need to access them. I commend Governor Hochul for continuing to prioritize affordability and deliver meaningful support to millions of New Yorkers across the state."

Assemblymember Christopher W. Eachus said, "For too many Hudson Valley families and seniors, rising property taxes and the increasing cost of living continue to make it harder to make ends meet. My colleagues and I have fought to make New York more affordable and to ensure that hardworking homeowners receive the relief they deserve. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for continuing to support and fund programs like STAR that provide meaningful tax relief to homeowners across New York State. These investments help families stay in their homes and strengthen our local communities. The STAR program puts real money back into the pockets of families, seniors, and middle-class homeowners who are feeling the squeeze of higher costs. At a time when too many residents are struggling with housing expenses, utility bills, groceries, and other everyday necessities, this tax relief can help ease the burden and allow people to keep more of what they earn. I will continue working to lower costs, strengthen property tax relief, and support policies that help Hudson Valley families remain in the communities they have worked so hard to build. I encourage all eligible homeowners to take advantage of the STAR program."

Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky said, "New York State remains committed to helping residents manage the rising cost of living. A key part of that commitment is the STAR program, which provides meaningful relief by reducing the burden of school property taxes for eligible homeowners. I encourage homeowners to review their eligibility for both Basic STAR and Enhanced STAR, check the delivery schedule for their area, and ensure they receive the tax relief they have earned. I thank Governor Hochul for supporting this convenient program that supports the financial wellbeing of homeowners statewide."

Assemblymember Landon C. Dais said, "At a time when the Trump Administration is slashing funding for essential programs and creating uncertainty for working families across New York, the STAR program continues to provide meaningful tax relief for millions of homeowners. From enhanced benefits for low-income seniors to full property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, these programs help ensure that New Yorkers can remain in their homes and afford the rising cost of living. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued commitment to protecting homeowners and delivering relief to families, seniors, and veterans across our state. I encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of these important benefits and apply."

Assemblymember Paula Elaine Kay said, "Finding ways to keep my constituents' hard-earned dollars in their pockets is one of my top priorities. The STAR tax relief program does just that for homeowners across New York. Thank you to Governor Hochul for ensuring that New Yorkers will continue to receive savings through this valuable program, and I hope we can continue finding ways to ease the financial burden that many of us are experiencing, especially as utility costs continue to rise."

Assemblymember Kwani B. O'Pharrow said, "The STAR program continues to provide meaningful property tax relief to New York homeowners and seniors, helping families keep more of their hard-earned income. As STAR credit checks begin to be distributed, I encourage all eligible homeowners to ensure they are registered to receive this important benefit. I also urge qualifying New Yorkers to enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit Program for a faster, safer, and more convenient way to receive their payments. I thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued commitment to keeping this important program in place for New Yorkers. Every dollar saved through STAR helps strengthen household finances and our communities."

Assemblymember Tommy John Schiavoni said, "The first round of STAR checks is welcome news for homeowners and seniors who are feeling the pressure of rising costs. The STAR program continues to provide meaningful property tax relief that helps families manage household expenses and allows older New Yorkers on fixed incomes to remain in their homes and communities. I encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this benefit and enroll in the STAR Credit Direct Deposit Program, which provides a secure, convenient, and reliable way to receive your payment. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to making New York more affordable for homeowners and seniors."

Assemblymember Jordan J.G. Wright said, "The STAR program is a lifeline for homeowners across our state, and its impact is especially felt in communities like ours, where every dollar counts. STAR benefits ranging from hundreds to over a thousand dollars will help families, seniors, and longtime homeowners stay in their homes and remain rooted in the neighborhoods they helped build. I applaud Governor Hochul and the Department of Taxation and Finance for moving this relief out the door quickly, and I strongly encourage eligible New Yorkers to visit ny.gov/STAR to enroll, confirm their eligibility, or track their benefit so they receive every dollar they are owed."

Assemblymember Keith Powers said, "For too many New Yorkers, the cost of staying in the communities they've built is continuing to rise. The STAR program serves as a lifeline that puts dollars back into the pockets of homeowners, including many seniors in Manhattan's East Side. I commend the Governor's efforts on delivering this kind of direct tax relief that will help alleviate the rising costs New Yorkers are facing."

New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin said, "Affordability remains the number one challenge facing New Yorkers. Property tax relief programs like STAR help ease the burden on homeowners and seniors who are feeling squeezed by the rising cost of living. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to delivering this relief and helping New Yorkers keep more money in their pockets."

New York City Department of Finance Commissioner Richard Lee said, "Programs like STAR make a real difference for homeowners, particularly families and seniors across New York by helping them keep more of their income. It's critical that eligible New Yorkers know about and access the tax-saving benefits available to them so they can take full advantage of the support these programs provide."