Scammers continue to target New Yorkers with a dangerous inflation refund scam that pushes residents to share personal and banking information. These fake messages — via text, email, and direct mail — claim people must verify their payment details to receive refund checks.
You don’t need to do anything to get your refund
Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that eligible New Yorkers automatically receive inflation refund checks without signing up, applying, or verifying anything. To qualify, you must:
- File a tax return
- Meet the income eligibility threshold
- Avoid getting claimed as a dependent
The state began sending over 8.2 million checks in September, and deliveries will continue through October and November.
Scammers want you to believe that the IRS or New York State Tax Department needs your information to deposit the money. That’s false. These agencies never contact taxpayers by phone, email, or text to request sensitive data.
How the scam works
Fraudsters impersonate tax officials to steal your personal details. They:
- Send fake texts or emails with “verification” requests
- Use robocalls or voicemail messages pretending to be state agencies
- Mail letters that look official, urging you to claim your refund
The messages often include links or phone numbers designed to trick you into handing over private information.
What to do if you get a scam message
You can protect yourself with a few simple actions:
- Block the sender and delete the message
- Avoid clicking any links or calling unknown numbers
- Never share your personal or banking info via text or email
- Hang up immediately on suspicious calls
- Report any scam attempt to the Tax Department or IRS
The New York Division of Consumer Protection also offers help. Call 800-697-1220 or visit their Identity Theft Prevention and Mitigation Program for support.
Stay alert: No agency will contact you for your banking info
Governor Hochul warned that state agencies won’t reach out to anyone for account or identity verification.
“The Tax Department and the IRS do not call or text individuals for personal information,” Hochul said. “Remain vigilant and report these scams.”
Scammers prey on urgency and confusion. Recognizing the signs makes it easier to shut them down.
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