More Than 8 Million People in the U.S. Are Set to Get an Inflation Refund Check

More than 8 million people in the U.S. will soon get a refund check — but only if they meet certain rules.

The New York State Office of Taxation and Finance said it will send out inflation refund checks for the first time to New York residents starting at the end of September.

To qualify, residents must have lived in New York for the entire year of 2023 and filed a tax return. People who lived in the state only part of the year, or who were claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return, will not receive a check.

Single filers can receive up to $200, while married couples or qualifying surviving spouses may get up to $400. The exact amount depends on income. Single filers making $75,000 or less will receive $200. Married couples or surviving spouses with incomes up to $150,000 will receive $400.

Officials said that residents don’t need to take any action. Checks will be automatically mailed to the address listed on the 2024 tax return. Anyone who has moved should update their address with the New York State Office of Taxation and Finance.

The refund checks will be sent “over a multiple-week period” through November, according to the New York governor’s website.

“You may receive your check sooner or later than your neighbors, as mailings are not based on zip code or region,” the agency said. “We cannot provide a specific delivery schedule, and our Contact Center representatives will not have additional information on the status of your check.”

Governor Kathy Hochul first announced the refunds in May. The money is part of the state’s Fall Year 2026 Budget to help fight inflation, which has raised the cost of basic needs.

“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,” Hochul said at the time.

She added, “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.”