As inflation continues to affect household budgets, some U.S. states are stepping in with one-time stimulus checks to help residents manage rising costs. In 2025, multiple states are issuing $400 inflation relief payments to eligible taxpayers.
These state-level stimulus efforts are funded by budget surpluses, unspent federal aid, or new legislation focused on cost-of-living relief. They’re different than the types of checks that were sent out between 2020 and 2022.
Which States Are Sending $400 Stimulus Checks in 2025?
As of May 30, the following states have confirmed or are finalizing plans to issue $400 payments:
- New York – As part of the 2025–2026 budget, New York will issue inflation refund checks to eligible residents who paid higher sales taxes due to inflation. Payments are set to begin mid-October 2025 and will be mailed automatically — no application required.
- New Mexico – Lawmakers passed a $400 rebate in early 2025, but it applies to 2023 tax filers who meet specific income thresholds. Eligible residents can expect checks by August if they filed on time.
Other states may follow, depending on budget conditions and legislative action later this year.
Who Qualifies for These Payments?
Eligibility criteria vary by state, but generally include:
- Income requirements – Most programs target low- to moderate-income taxpayers.
- Residency – You must have been a full-time resident during the tax year used for eligibility.
- Filing status – You may need to have filed a state income tax return, even if you had no tax liability.
- No application necessary – Most programs automatically issue payments to eligible residents based on tax records.
When Will Payments Be Sent?
Here’s a look at expected payment timelines by state:
| State | Payment Start Date | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Mid-October 2025 | $400 |
Check your state’s Department of Revenue or Taxation website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Do You Need to Apply?
In most cases, no application is required. States are using tax return data from 2023 or 2024 to determine eligibility and will mail checks automatically to qualifying households.
However, if you didn’t file a tax return for the relevant year, you may be ineligible — or may need to take action to claim your payment. Some states offer relief portals for those who missed the original filing deadline.
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