New York to Send Out Inflation Refund Checks: Here’s Who Qualifies

New York to Send Out Inflation Refund Checks: Here’s Who Qualifies

New York State is rolling out a new financial relief initiative aimed at helping residents cope with the rising cost of living. As part of the fiscal year 2026 budget, the state will distribute "inflation refund" checks to qualifying taxpayers. This automatic refund will benefit individuals and families across the state without requiring any additional application.

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for the inflation refund check, residents must meet the following requirements:

• Filed a 2023 New York State income tax return

• Meet income thresholds:

  • Single filers: Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) up to $150,000

  • Joint filers: AGI up to $300,000

• Individuals who are claimed as dependents on another tax return are not eligible

How Much Will You Get?

The amount of the refund depends on your income and filing status:

For Single Filers:

• AGI up to $75,000: $200

• AGI between $75,001 and $150,000: $150

For Joint Filers:

• AGI up to $150,000: $400

• AGI between $150,001 and $300,000: $300

• 
  

When Will Checks Go Out?

No application is necessary. The New York Department of Taxation and Finance will use your 2023 tax return to determine eligibility and issue payments:

• Refunds are scheduled to begin distribution in fall 2025

• If the state has your direct deposit information, you may receive your payment sooner

• Others will receive a paper check by mail

• 
  

Additional Budget Benefits

The inflation refund is part of a broader package of middle-class support measures, including:

• Child Tax Credit expansion:

  • Up to $1,000 per child under age 4

  • Up to $500 per child aged 4 to 16

• Free school meals for all public school students

• Middle-class tax cuts, projected to deliver nearly $1 billion in relief annually

• 
  

These initiatives reflect the state’s commitment to softening the blow of inflation for working families and low- to middle-income households. With inflation continuing to impact day-to-day living, the refund checks are designed to offer some breathing room.

Source: Governor's Office – News Release