New York State has begun mailing out inflation refund checks.
The first batch went out on Friday, Sept. 26, according to an announcement from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office. Checks will continue to be distributed through October and November, with roughly 8.2 million residents expected to receive refunds of up to $400.
These one-time payments aim to “provide relief to New Yorkers who have paid increased sales taxes due to inflation,” according to the New York State Department of Finance.
So, who qualifies for an inflation refund check?
Per the Department of Finance:
- Single filers who earned $75,000 or less in 2023 will receive $200.
- Single filers earning between $75,000 and $150,000 will receive $150.
- Joint filers with incomes up to $150,000 will receive $400.
- Joint filers earning between $150,000 and $300,000 will receive $300.
To be eligible, residents must have filed Form IT-201, New York State Resident Income Tax Return and cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return.
The Department of Finance noted that checks are not mailed by zip code, so some recipients may receive theirs earlier or later than neighbors—but there’s no need for concern.
Residents also do not need to sign up or apply for the refund. Checks will automatically be mailed to the addresses listed on 2024 tax returns. Those who have moved should update their address with the New York State Office of Taxation and Finance to ensure delivery.
These payments are part of Gov. Hochul’s initiative to “put money back in the pockets” of New Yorkers.
“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,” Hochul said in a statement.
