Marcellino Protects Star Rebate Checks

State Senator Carl L. Marcellino (R, Syosset) announced today that the Senate has passed his legislation, Senate Bill 6485, which will extend the date to apply for the Middle Class STAR rebate program from November 30, 2007 to December 31, 2007.

"Nearly 60,000 homeowners in Suffolk County received their Middle Class STAR rebate application letter late because of a mailing error. While it appears everyone due to receive the rebate has or will have the application letter soon, the unanticipated delay could lead many homeowners to miss the deadline to apply," Senator Marcellino said.

This legislation provides homeowners statewide an additional month to apply for their rebate check. Some homeowners may still be under the impression that the rebate check will be mailed to their homes automatically, as it was last year. Application for the 2007 rebate cannot be made without a personal identification code found on the mailed form from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.

"Homeowners should not be denied their rightful and needed tax relief because of a mistake made out of their control. The extension would benefit any homeowner who, for any reason, has yet to apply. This common sense legislation will ensure that our overburdened property taxpayers get what they deserve," concluded Senator Marcellino.

The bill is carried in the Assembly by Robert Sweeney and has been sent to the Assembly for their consideration.

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S.6485