ALBANY, NY (May 14, 2025) — Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that 8.2 million New York households will receive inflation refund checks of up to $400 this fall. The checks, part of the FY 2026 State Budget, will be mailed directly to eligible New Yorkers starting in October and continuing through November, with no application required.
“Starting in October, over 8 million New Yorkers will get an inflation refund because it’s simple — this is your money and we’re putting it back in your pockets,” Hochul said.
She emphasized her commitment to easing financial burdens, noting the budget also cuts middle-class taxes to their lowest in 70 years, expands the Child Tax Credit to up to $1,000 per child, and secures universal free school meals, saving families about $1,600 per child.
Eligibility for the refund checks is based on 2023 tax filings. Joint filers with incomes up to $150,000 will receive $400, while those with incomes between $150,000 and $300,000 will get $300. Single filers with incomes up to $75,000 will receive $200, and those with incomes between $75,000 and $150,000 will get $150. Recipients must have filed a 2023 New York State Resident Income Tax Return (Form IT-201) and not be claimed as a dependent. There are no age restrictions.
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins praised the initiative, saying, “The Senate Democratic Majority has worked with Governor Hochul and the Assembly to deliver a budget that invests in people and addresses the challenges facing New Yorkers.” Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie added, “These checks will put money back into the pockets of New Yorkers, allowing them to save or spend in a way that makes sense for them.”
Local leaders also voiced support. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said the checks are critical for families “living on the sharp edge of poverty,” while Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson thanked Hochul for “easing the financial burdens facing New Yorkers.” New York City Council Member Chris Banks noted, “These checks may be the difference between a family eating or being able to pay rent.”
Hochul attributed the program to increased state sales tax revenue driven by inflation, stating, “That money belongs to hardworking New York families and should be put back in their pockets.” The checks will reach households across all regions, with 3.53 million going to New York City, 1.25 million to Long Island, and 924,000 to the Mid-Hudson area, among others.
New Yorkers can visit ny.gov/inflationrefund for eligibility details and additional information from the New York State Tax Department.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
