Assemblywoman Gunther helped pass a final state budget that provides New York homeowners with $1.3 billion in property tax relief. Under Middle Class STAR, New Yorkers will see a STAR tax rebate based on a sliding scale tied to income. So the question is, how do you get your rebate money?

• Property owners who receive Basic STAR will have to apply for a rebate check, and its amount will be based on income

• The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance is providing these property owners with application instructions through the mail

• Visit www.tax.state.ny.us/star/2007 for the timing of mailings to your area

• Qualifying homeowners have until Nov. 30 to apply

• You must be a STAR recipient to get the rebate check; visit www.orps.state.ny.us/star/faq.htm for information on how to enroll or contact your local assessor

Public hearing on property taxes

Assemblywoman Gunther and the Assembly Committee on Real Property Taxation will hold a public hearing to address New York’s property tax crisis: Wednesday, September 26 at the Paramount Theatre, 17 South Street, Middletown, NY 10940. If you would like to speak at the hearing, call Assemblywoman Gunther’s office at 794-5807.