Governor says inflation refund checks up to $400 will be mailed in October-November

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that inflation refund checks up to $400 will be sent this fall to 8.2 million households across New York State.

Checks will be mailed directly to eligible New Yorkers starting in October and will continue through November. There is no need to apply, sign up or do anything to receive a check.

Governor Hochul secured and enacted this initiative in the FY 2026 State Budget as part of her ongoing commitment to putting money back in the pockets of New Yorkers. The State Budget also enacted the Governor’s initiatives to cut taxes for the middle class to their lowest levels in 70 years, expand New York’s Child Tax Credit to up to $1,000 per child, and ensure universal free school meals to save families around $1,600 per child.

“Starting in October, over 8 million New Yorkers will get an inflation refund because it’s simple — this is your money and we’re putting it back in your pockets,” Governor Hochul said. “I’ll never stop fighting to help your family address the rising cost of living — and that’s why I also delivered on my promise to cut taxes for the middle class, expand the child tax credit and ensure free school meals for every student.”

Who’s Eligible for an Inflation Refund Check?

You are eligible for an inflation refund check if, for tax year 2023, you:

• Filed Form IT-201, New York State Resident Income Tax Return;
• Reported income within the qualifying thresholds below; and
• Were not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.
• Joint tax filers with income up to $150,000 will receive a $400 check.
• Joint tax filers with income over $150,000 but no greater than $300,000 will receive a $300 check.
• Single tax filers with income up to $75,000 will receive a $200 check.
• Single tax filers with incomes over $75,000 but no greater than $150,000 will receive a $150 check.

There are no age restrictions. Filers do not need to do anything to receive an inflation refund check. If you filed a tax return, are below the income thresholds, and no one else claimed you as a dependent, you will receive a check.

When Will Checks Be Delivered?

Checks will be mailed across the state starting in October, and deliveries will continue through November.

Your check may arrive earlier or later than your neighbors, as mailings will not be based on zip code or region.

Starting today, New Yorkers can visit ny.gov/inflationrefund for more information on eligibility and other details.