As the holiday season approaches, several U.S. states are rolling out stimulus payments to help residents manage household expenses. These benefits aim to ease the financial burden many families face, especially during colder months when heating, food, and other living costs tend to spike. Programs in New York, Alaska, and California are leading the way with new or expanded relief efforts designed to support various groups, from seniors to young families.
New York
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced the second phase of the School Tax Relief (STAR) program. This initiative provides significant property tax relief to homeowners across the state. It specifically targets those living in communities where school tax due dates fall in August or September.
Here’s what recipients can expect:
- Most eligible homeowners will receive between $350 and $600
- Senior citizens may get between $700 and $1,500
Benefits can come as either a direct reduction on your school tax bill or as a check or direct deposit credit. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of giving back to working families instead of the ultra-wealthy, saying STAR checks are helping millions of New Yorkers right now.
The first wave of the STAR program already distributed payments to cities like New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, and Syracuse. Overall, nearly 3 million New Yorkers will benefit from over $2.2 billion in total relief.
Alaska
Meanwhile, in Alaska, residents are set to receive $1,702 through the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program. This long-running initiative redistributes a portion of oil revenue back to citizens. It’s a unique program that supports residents through winter fuel costs and other seasonal expenses.
Key details include:
- Each qualified resident will receive $1,702
- Payments will be made on August 21, 2025
- Applicants must have lived in Alaska continuously during 2023
- They must not have claimed residency in another state or country
- No felony convictions and must not have left Alaska for more than 180 days
Those with applications marked “Eligible-Unpaid” by August 13, 2025, will be part of this distribution cycle. The program helps maintain household stability during some of the harshest months of the year.
California
California is also offering relief, but it’s more targeted. The Sacramento Family Economic Support Pilot Program is a guaranteed income project providing $725 per month for 12 months to selected families. It’s aimed at parents or legal guardians of young children (ages 0–5) who live in specific ZIP codes and earn under 200% of the federal poverty level.
The program offers more than just money. Participants will also receive:
- Financial education webinars
- Access to local community organizations
- One-on-one financial counseling
- Peer support group opportunities
Only 200 participants will be selected through a random drawing, but the goal is to see how consistent, no-strings-attached payments can help improve long-term financial health.
Overview
Each of these programs shows how local and state governments are stepping in to provide support when federal aid is uncertain. Whether it’s helping with school taxes in New York, offsetting energy costs in Alaska, or offering guaranteed income in California, the aim is to lift some of the financial pressure off households during a demanding season.
FAQs
How much will New York seniors get?
Between $700 and $1,500 depending on eligibility.
Who qualifies for Alaska’s $1,702 PFD payment?
Residents living in Alaska all of 2023 with no felonies.
When is Alaska’s PFD being paid?
Payments go out on August 21, 2025.
What is California’s guaranteed income program?
A $725 monthly payment for 12 months to select families.
How can I check my STAR check status?
Visit ny.gov/STAR to track or enroll in direct deposit.
