Starting in mid-October 2025, over 8 million New Yorkers will receive inflation refund checks under a new program included in the state’s 2025–2026 budget. These one-time payments are designed to provide relief for residents impacted by rising prices and increased sales taxes due to inflation.
Is New York getting an inflation relief check?
Yes. New York State is issuing its first-ever inflation refund checks this fall. The refunds are part of Governor Hochul’s 2025 budget plan and are meant to offset the cost of inflation for qualifying residents. The Department of Taxation and Finance will automatically send checks—no application is required.
What are inflation refund checks?
Inflation refund checks are direct payments from the state government to residents who paid higher sales taxes due to inflation. The checks vary in size based on 2023 income and filing status, offering a financial cushion without requiring residents to file a separate claim.
Refund amounts based on filing status and income
| Filing Status | Income Range | Refund Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single | ≤ $75,000 | $200 |
| $75,001–$150,000 | $150 | |
| Married Filing Joint | ≤ $150,000 | $400 |
| $150,001–$300,000 | $300 | |
| Married Filing Separate | ≤ $75,000 | $200 |
| $75,001–$150,000 | $150 | |
| Head of Household | ≤ $75,000 | $200 |
| $75,001–$150,000 | $150 | |
| Qualified Surviving Spouse | ≤ $150,000 | $400 |
| $150,001–$300,000 | $300 |
Who qualifies for NY inflation refund checks in 2025?
You may qualify if you:
- Filed a 2023 New York State resident income tax return (Form IT-201)
- Had adjusted gross income (AGI) within the thresholds listed above
- Were not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return
No further action is required if you meet these criteria. The check will be sent to the address on file with the Department of Taxation and Finance.
When will New Yorkers receive the checks?
The state will begin mailing checks in mid-October 2025, and the process will take several weeks due to the high volume of eligible recipients. According to officials:
- Delivery is not based on ZIP code or region
- You may receive your check earlier or later than neighbors
- There is no online status checker, and support staff will not have tracking details
Are New Yorkers getting a stimulus check in 2025?
While not officially labeled a “stimulus,” the inflation refund check serves a similar purpose. It’s a one-time payment aimed at easing the financial pressure from inflation for middle- and lower-income New Yorkers.
These refunds are not taxable and will not affect other benefits like SNAP or Medicaid eligibility.
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