For some area homeowners, the check from New York State, as part of the homeowner tax rebate credit isn’t in the mail — it’s already been received — but many don’t know what it is or why they received it.

Since it was approved with limited fanfare by Gov. Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers in January as part of the state budget process, some residents have had some confusion about the program — but appreciating the extra funds.

“Mohawk Valley families are digging deeper into their wallets to afford everyday necessities,” said Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, D-119, Marcy. “I’m committed to doing everything I can to ease the financial burdens brought on by inflation. That is why I fought for a state budget that puts money back into New Yorkers’ pockets by providing property tax rebate checks to eligible households.”

“I’ll continue pushing for measures that deliver much-needed relief and get us on track toward a brighter future.”

The state Department of Taxation and Finance has outlined the program and has a page on its website, https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/homeowner-tax-rebate-credit.htm, that explains the homeowner tax rebate credit as well as provides an online tool for those who have yet to receive a check — about half of the three million eligible New York homeowners — and see approximately how much money they can expect to receive.

The homeowner tax rebate program is a one-year program that is aimed at providing direct property tax relief to eligible homeowners. The state tax department has already mailed about 1 million STAR rebate checks earlier this month. Other eligible homeowners should get the check by early July, according to the state tax department.

Rebate amounts vary, but the average check for an eligible homeowner in Upstate New York is about $970, according to the state.

For those who qualify, residents don’t need to do anything to receive a check, according to the state tax department.

To be eligible, the state tax department website states, a resident must have:

• Qualified for a 2022 STAR credit or exemption;
• Had income that was less than or equal to $250,000 for the 2020 income tax year; and
• A school tax liability for the 2022-2023 school year that is more than your 2022 STAR benefit.

According to the tax department, the amount of your rebate credit will depend on:

• Where your home is located;
• How much your income is; and
• Whether you receive Enhanced STAR or Basic STAR.

To find the amount you’ll receive for the homeowner tax rebate credit, go online to: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/homeowner-tax-rebate-credit.htm#calculate.

The check is a rebate in addition to the usual STAR, or school tax relief payment — that check comes a couple of weeks before school taxes are due.