It's nice that the Amherst assessor advises his residents on the changes to the STAR program.
Thank you Dave Marrano for informing the public.

From the Amherst Bee-
Additional changes made to STAR program

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance has made some additional changes to the STAR program.
According to the Town of Amherst Assessor’s Office, the changes apply to property owners who: initially enrolled in STAR prior to 2015 and receive the STAR as a reduction on their school property tax bill that they receive in September.

This does not apply to owners who enrolled in STAR credit/check after 2015 and receive the STAR exemption payment in the form of a check.

If an individual currently receives their STAR benefit as a reduction on their school property tax bill, they may receive a greater benefit if they switch to the STAR credit to receive the check.

The value of the STAR savings may increase up to 2 percent versus the previous year. In order to be eligible for the possible increase, an individual has the option to convert to the STAR credit to receive the check.

If an individual chooses not to convert, the value of the STAR increase will be locked in at the current level. In addition, if an individual’s income is above $250,000, it is mandatory to be in the STAR credit program and receive the check.

The maximum income to receive the STAR credit remains at $500,000.

The process to switch is handled directly with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance and not the local assessor. In order to receive the credit/ check for the September 2019 school property tax bill, it must be done prior to June 16.

Individuals should visit www.tax.ny.gov/star or call 518-457-2036.