Fifth Avenue Committee affiliate, Neighbors Helping Neighbors is committed to helping our neighbors build and preserve assets. For many homeowners, property taxes are one of the most significant costs of living in New York. The School Tax Relief (STAR) program is a vital tool to lower those costs, but the rules have changed significantly over the last few years.
Whether you are a new homeowner or a long-time resident, here is everything you need to know to ensure you are receiving the maximum benefit.
Exemption vs. Credit: Which One Are You Getting?
Depending on when you purchased your home and your income level, you receive your STAR benefit in one of two ways. It is important to know the difference:
- STAR Credit (The Check): If you purchased your home after 2015, you receive your benefit as a check or direct deposit from the New York State Tax Department.
- Income Limit: $500,000 or less.
- STAR Exemption (The Reduction): If you have owned your home since 2015 or earlier, you likely see a direct reduction on your school tax bill.
- Income Limit: $250,000 or less.
Pro Tip: If your income is between $250,000 and $500,000, you are not eligible for the exemption but are eligible for the credit. You must switch to the STAR Credit to continue receiving your benefit.
Enhanced STAR for Seniors
The Enhanced STAR benefit provides even deeper savings for senior citizens (age 65 and older).
- 2026-2027 Income Limit: $110,750 or less (based on 2024 tax returns).
- Automatic Upgrades: Starting in 2026, if you already receive the Basic STAR exemption and turn 65 this year, the Tax Department will automatically notify your assessor of your eligibility. No manual upgrade is needed for most homeowners.
Deadline for NYC Residents
While much of New York State observes a March 1st deadline, New York City homeowners must act by March 15th.
If you need to manually upgrade to Enhanced STAR, restore a missing exemption, or file an initial application for the exemption (if you owned your home prior to 2015), your paperwork must be submitted to the NYC Department of Finance by March 15, 2026.
Get Expert Help Today!
Don’t navigate the tax system alone. If you need help finding out if you’re eligible for the STAR program or would like to apply, set up an appointment with NHN’s Foreclosure Prevention Counselor.
Our counselor can help you verify your eligibility, assist with the application process, and ensure you are maximizing all available property tax reductions.
EN 
ES 
AR 
ZH