As August 2025 is about to begin, many people across different U.S. states are getting ready to receive stimulus payments that will provide much-needed support. These payments are aimed at helping families with everyday expenses—especially during the back-to-school season and upcoming holidays.
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the second phase of the School Tax Relief (STAR) Program, which brings direct financial help to eligible homeowners. Other states like Alaska and California also have their own support programs running this August. Here’s a full guide on what to expect.
New York’s STAR Program: What It Offers
The STAR program in New York helps homeowners lower their school property tax bills or provides the benefit as a direct check or deposit. The second phase of this program is now starting.
If you’re a homeowner in areas where school tax payments are due in August or September, your benefit will arrive in the coming weeks.
What you can expect to receive:
Homeowners: Between $350 and $600
Seniors: Between $700 and $1,500
This relief will come as either:
A reduction on your school tax bill
Or a direct check or bank deposit
Why STAR Matters for New Yorkers
According to Governor Hochul, the STAR Program is a key part of helping families at a time when federal funding is being reduced. She explained that New York is making efforts to return money directly to its people—especially when many households are struggling with expenses.
The first phase of STAR payments was already distributed earlier this summer to places like New York City, Buffalo, Yonkers, Rochester, and Syracuse. In total, nearly 3 million homeowners across the state are expected to get more than $2.2 billion in school tax relief this year.
Alaska: $1,702 Through the Permanent Fund Dividend
In Alaska, the popular Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) continues. This program gives every qualifying resident a payment funded by the state’s oil and gas income. For August 2025, people whose applications from 2024 or earlier are marked as “Eligible – Unpaid” by August 13 will receive $1,702 on August 21.
This payment helps Alaskans manage winter heating and gas costs, especially in colder months.
California: Support for Families with Young Children
In California, the Sacramento Family Economic Support Pilot Program is offering help to low-income families with children aged 0 to 5 years. Families living in certain ZIP codes and earning below 200% of the federal poverty level may qualify.
About 200 randomly chosen families will get:
$725 per month for 12 months
Access to support services like financial counseling, webinars, peer groups, and local community connections
This program is a form of guaranteed income, aimed at improving life for young children and their caregivers.
From New York’s STAR school tax relief, to Alaska’s $1,702 dividend, to California’s monthly support for families, multiple U.S. states are offering financial help this August 2025. Whether you’re a homeowner, parent, or resident in these areas, it’s important to check if you qualify and follow up on your application status.
These programs may differ by location, but they share one goal—to provide relief to people during challenging times. Make sure to keep track of key dates, update your contact details if needed, and use the support wisely.
