Starting October 2025, New York State will send out inflation rebate checks to over 8.2 million households. These payments are part of a new plan led by Governor Kathy Hochul to help middle-class families cope with rising prices. Depending on your income, you could receive between $150 and $400—with no need to apply.
What Is the Inflation Refund and Why Is It Happening?
The inflation rebate is part of the fiscal 2026 state budget, aimed at reducing the impact of inflation on working families. At the same time, the state is also cutting taxes to the lowest levels in 70 years and expanding the child tax credit.
Governor Hochul’s plan uses extra money collected from taxes in 2023 due to inflation to give some of it back to residents. This refund is one way to help people who have faced rising food and housing costs.
How Much Will You Get?
The amount you receive depends on your 2023 income, based on your New York State IT-201 tax form. Here’s a quick guide:
- $400: For joint filers with income up to $150,000
- $300: For joint or single filers with income up to $300,000
- $200: For individuals with income up to $75,000
- $150: For single filers with income up to $150,000
Only taxpayers are eligible—dependents do not qualify for these checks.
Do You Need to Apply?
No application is needed. The New York Department of Revenue will use the tax return data from 2023 to determine eligibility. If you qualify, the rebate check will be automatically mailed to your address on file.
There will be no online applications, no forms to fill, and no direct deposit. All payments will come as physical checks sent by mail.
When Will Checks Arrive?
The first round of checks will be mailed in early October 2025. The mailing process will continue until mid-November. The delivery is staggered over 8 weeks, which means checks will go out in batches.
There is no regional priority. It doesn’t matter where you live—everyone eligible will get their check based on mailing schedules.
If you haven’t received your check by November 30, you should contact the New York Department of Revenue.
Who Will Get the Checks – Regional Breakdown
The distribution will mostly reflect the state’s population. Here’s how the benefits will be spread:
- New York City: 3.53 million recipients (43% of all checks)
- Long Island: 1.25 million
- Mid-Hudson Region: 924,000
- North Country: 156,000
- Mohawk Valley: 198,000
These numbers show how different regions will receive rebates based on population size.
What If You Moved or Have a Wrong Address?
Since checks are being mailed, having the correct address on file is crucial. If your mailing address is outdated or incorrect, your check may be delayed or returned. To avoid issues, make sure your address with the Department of Revenue is current.
The program’s official site ny.gov/inflationrefund will post weekly updates on the mailing schedule and other important info.