Ritchie Calls on Department of Tax and Finance to Fix Enhanced STAR Check Error ASAP

State Senator Patty Ritchie is calling on the New York State Department of Tax and Finance to correct an error that is causing those enrolled in the state’s Enhanced STAR program—an initiative that provides annual school tax savings for senior citizens—to receive credit checks for less money than they are entitled to.

Following calls from constituents concerned about receiving inaccurate Enhanced STAR credit checks, Senator Ritchie contacted the New York State Department of Tax and Finance, which confirmed that Basic STAR credit checks—which are for non-senior homeowners—were inadvertently mailed to some individuals who should be receiving Enhanced STAR benefits.  The Department confirmed that they are working to send checks to those affected for the difference as soon as possible.

“Across the region I represent there are so many senior citizens on fixed incomes who rely on this program to stay afloat and make ends meet,” said Senator Ritchie.

“I am calling on the Department of Tax and Finance to expedite the delivery of checks to correct this error, so seniors receive the funds they are owed as soon as possible.”

The Department also added that they will be reaching out to affected homeowners by phone, as well as by mail.  Senator Ritchie encourages those who believe they received an Enhanced STAR credit check for an inaccurate amount to call the New York State Department of Tax and Finance at (518) 457-2036 between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.