Taxes are one of the items cited on a regular basis as a major problem for New York State. That’s why tax relief is one of my top priorities – and several new measures are set to take hold to help reduce the tax burden of hardworking New Yorkers and their families.

In the coming weeks, thousands of local families with children under the age of 17 will receive a $350 family tax relief check. These checks, which are designed to help families cope with the rising cost of raising a child, will provide more than $400 million in direct tax relief to hard working New York families.

You do not need to apply to receive the relief check. If eligible, you will automatically be mailed a check from the State Department of Taxation and Finance. You are eligible for 2014 if, on your 2012 state tax return you:

Were a New York State resident the entire year;

Claimed at least one child under the age of 17 as a dependent;

Had New York State adjusted gross income between $40,000 and $300,00;