$1,400 Stimulus Check Payment in 2024: New York State’s School Tax Relief (STAR) program provides significant financial relief to homeowners burdened by school taxes. Divided into BASIC STAR and Enhanced STAR segments, this program issues tax relief checks that help homeowners manage their school tax obligations.
Importance of the STAR Program
With an average anticipated stimulus check of $1,407, the program is a critical support mechanism that helps keep homeownership affordable in New York State. By adjusting eligibility criteria and benefit amounts in response to economic changes, the STAR program ensures continued financial assistance to homeowners.
Eligibility for the $1407 Stimulus Check
- Residency: The property must be the homeowner’s primary residence, where they live most of the time.
- Age: No age restrictions apply.
- Income: The combined income of all property owners must be $500,000 or less for the STAR credit and $250,000 or less for the STAR exemption.
- Ownership: Applicants must own the property. Married couples are entitled to one STAR benefit per household unless legally separated. Properties owned by corporations, partnerships, and LLCs are generally not eligible, except for farm dwellings.
Enhanced STAR Eligibility Criteria
- Residency: The property must be the primary residence of at least one owner meeting the age criteria.
- Age: All owners must be at least 65 years old by December 31 of the exemption year. For properties owned by married couples or siblings, only one owner needs to meet the age requirement.
- Income: For 2024, the income limit is $98,700 or less, increasing to $107,300 or less in 2025.
- Ownership: Same as BASIC STAR, requiring the applicant(s) to own the property.
Special Considerations
- Surviving Spouses: May continue receiving Enhanced STAR benefits under specific conditions.
- Corporations and LLCs: Generally ineligible, except for farm dwellings.
Timeline for Distribution of $1407 Stimulus Check
Updates to the Tax Star credit website begin in mid-April, with new income limits and eligibility criteria. Funds distribution starts in the summer, and most checks are issued by September 11. For current program enrollees who have maintained homeownership, benefits are provided automatically.
How to Claim the $1,407 Stimulus Check
- Verify Primary Residence and Ownership: Ensure the property is your primary residence and you own it.
- Complete the Application: Visit the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website or call to register.
- Income Verification: Gather the previous year’s state or federal tax return.
- Age Verification for Enhanced STAR: Provide documents like birth certificates or driver’s licenses.
- No Reapplication for Current Enrollees: If already enrolled and ownership is maintained, benefits are automatic.
- Submit Application Timely: Ensure submission by the deadline to receive benefits promptly.
- Check Distribution: Expect checks to start mailing in the summer.
Following these steps will help you successfully claim your $1,407 stimulus check through New York State’s STAR program, easing the school tax burden for eligible homeowners.
