Millions in New York to receive one-time $400 checks without even applying: Here’s what to know

Americans living in New York are about to see some relief as the state prepares to send out its first-ever "inflation refund" checks. This initiative, part of the 2025–2026 state budget, is designed to help residents cope with the ongoing surge in living costs. With prices for essentials like groceries, rent, and utilities still stubbornly high, Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration is putting money directly back into the hands of those who need it most.

The state’s move comes on the heels of record-high sales tax revenues, which ballooned as inflation drove up the price of everyday goods. Rather than keeping this windfall, officials decided to redistribute it to taxpayers. “This can go into the state coffers, but why not give it back to the residents whose pockets it came out of?” Governor Hochul said, emphasizing the program’s goal of providing real, tangible relief to working families.

Over 8 million New Yorkers—roughly 8.2 million households—are expected to benefit from these one-time payments, which will be mailed out starting in mid-October 2025. There’s no need to apply; checks will be sent automatically to those who qualify. The refund is not taxable and does not need to be reported as income, making it a straightforward boost for recipients.


The payments are structured to provide the most help to low- and middle-income households, with the largest checks going to those with the lowest earnings. The state has also ensured that families on public assistance with children will receive an additional $100 payment, funded by leftover federal pandemic relief dollars.

The total cost of the program is estimated at $2 billion, a significant investment aimed at easing the cost-of-living pressures many Americans in New York are facing. As inflation in the New York area has outpaced much of the country, this refund is seen as a critical step in helping residents manage their budgets and maintain their quality of life.

Who is eligible for the inflation refund?

To qualify for New York’s inflation refund check, you must:

• Have filed Form IT-201, the New York State Resident Income Tax Return, for the 2023 tax year.
• Have reported income within the qualifying thresholds for your filing status.
• Not have been claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.

Who gets what

Single Filers

• $75,000 or less: $200 refund
• $75,001 to $150,000: $150 refund

Married Filing Jointly

• $150,000 or less: $400 refund
• $150,001 to $300,000: $300 refund

Married Filing Separately

• $75,000 or less: $200 refund
• $75,001 to $150,000: $150 refund

Head of Household

• $75,000 or less: $200 refund
• $75,001 to $150,000: $150 refund

Qualified Surviving Spouse

• $150,000 or less: $400 refund
• $150,001 to $300,000: $300 refund
  

With checks set to start arriving this fall, New Yorkers are encouraged to ensure their mailing address is up to date with the Department of Taxation and Finance. No further action is needed—if you’re eligible, your check is on its way.