This fall, New York State will send a check directly to millions of its residents as part of a new “Inflation Refund” program. Governor Kathy Hochul and the state legislature enacted this one-time payment within the FY 2026 Budget. The purpose of this refund is to return money to taxpayers who have faced higher costs due to inflation.
This straightforward guide explains everything you need to know about who qualifies, how much you can expect, and when the money will arrive.
What is the New York Inflation Refund?
The Inflation Refund is a one-time payment that New York State is sending to eligible residents. It is not a new income tax refund or a federal stimulus. Instead, the state is issuing this rebate to help households cope with the increased sales taxes they’ve paid on goods and services as prices have risen.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance manages the program, and most eligible residents do not need to take any action.
Who Is Eligible for the Payment?
The state will automatically determine eligibility based on your 2023 New York State Resident Income Tax Return (Form IT-201). To receive a check, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- You were a full-year New York State resident for the 2023 tax year.
- You filed your 2023 tax return (Form IT-201).
- Someone did not claim you as a dependent on their 2023 tax return.
- Your 2023 New York Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) falls within the specific thresholds. You can find your AGI on line 33 of your 2023 Form IT-201.
Those who were part-year residents and those who did not file a 2023 New York State resident tax return are not eligible for this specific payment.
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How Much is the Refund Check?
The amount you receive depends on your filing status and your 2023 New York Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). The payment structure is tiered as follows:
| Filing Status | 2023 New York Adjusted Gross Income | Refund Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Married Filing Jointly / Qualified Surviving Spouse | $150,000 or less | $400 |
| More than $150,000, but not more than $300,000 | $300 | |
| Single / Married Filing Separately / Head of Household | $75,000 or less | $200 |
| More than $75,000, but not more than $150,000 | $150 |
Do I Need to Apply?
No. You do not need to apply for this refund. If you are eligible, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance will automatically calculate your payment and send you a check.
Be wary of any calls, texts, or emails asking you to “register” or provide personal information to receive your payment. These are scams. The state will never ask you to pay a fee for you to receive your refund.
When Will I Receive My Check?
The state will begin mailing paper checks in mid-October 2025.
Because the state is sending a large volume of payments (over 8 million), the checks will go out over a period of several weeks and will likely continue into November. Your check may arrive at a different time than your neighbor’s, as the mailing process is not based on region or zip code.
How Will I Receive the Money?
The state will deliver all payments as a paper check mailed via the U.S. Postal Service.
This is a critical point: even if you received your regular state tax refund via direct deposit, the state will still send this inflation refund as a physical check.
The state will mail the check to the most recent address on file with the Department of Taxation and Finance. If you have moved since filing your last tax return, it is essential to update your address through your Individual Online Services account on the tax department’s website to avoid delays.
Will This Refund Affect My Other Benefits or Debts?
No. According to the Department of Taxation and Finance, the state will not apply the amount of your inflation refund to any outstanding state or federal debts. It is a protected payment meant to provide direct relief.
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