Who doesn’t love receiving a little extra money? If you’re living in New York State, there’s good news coming your way. Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that inflation relief checks of up to $400 will be sent to 8.2 million households this fall.
These stimulus payments are part of the Fiscal Year 2026 State Budget and aim to ease the financial stress caused by rising prices. The checks will be mailed automatically, and no extra forms or applications are required if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Who Qualifies for the $400 Inflation Relief Checks?
To receive the stimulus payment, you must have filed your New York State Resident Income Tax Return (Form IT-201) for the 2023 tax year. The amount you receive depends on your income and filing status:
- Single filers earning up to $75,000 will get $200
- Single filers earning between $75,000 and $150,000 will get $150
- Joint filers earning up to $150,000 will receive $400
- Joint filers earning between $150,000 and $300,000 will get $300
There are no age restrictions, and as long as you’ve filed your taxes correctly and on time, you don’t have to do anything. The checks will be automatically sent to your home.
When and Where Will Payments Be Sent?
The payments are expected to be mailed starting in October 2025. The initiative covers the entire state, and estimates suggest how many households will receive checks by region:
- New York City: 3.53 million homes
- Long Island: 1.25 million
- Mid-Hudson: 924,000
- Western New York: 585,000
- Finger Lakes: 513,000
- Capital Region: 475,000
- Central New York: 321,000
- Southern Tier: 251,000
- Mohawk Valley: 198,000
- North Country: 156,000
Where Does the Money Come From?
These stimulus checks are part of the 2026 State Budget. Along with this payment, the budget also includes:
- A plan to cut taxes for the middle class
- An expanded Child Tax Credit of up to $1,000 per child
- A promise to offer free school meals to all children
Governor Hochul explained, “Starting in October, more than 8 million New Yorkers will receive an inflation refund because it’s simple: This is your money and we’re putting it back in your pockets.”
How to Check If You’re Eligible
If you’re unsure about whether you qualify or want more information about the program, you can visit the state’s official site at ny.gov/inflationrefund. This page will help you understand your eligibility, payment timelines, and other details.