New York State is ready to send inflation-related refund checks to millions of residents this fall. These checks are designed to help ease the financial pressure caused by rising prices. Starting in October 2025, eligible households will get up to $400 without needing to fill out any extra paperwork.
What Is the Inflation Refund Program?
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the inflation rebate program as part of the 2025-2026 state budget. Over 8 million New Yorkers will receive direct payments to help cover the impact of increased sales taxes caused by inflation.
The checks will be mailed automatically in October, November, and possibly December 2025. No action or application is needed if you qualify.
Who Is Eligible for the Refund?
Eligibility is based on your 2023 New York State income tax return (Form IT-201). To qualify:
- You must have filed the Resident Income Tax Return (IT-201) for 2023.
- You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
- Your adjusted gross income (AGI) must fall within certain limits based on your filing status.
If you did not file the IT-201 for 2023, you are not eligible for the refund.
How Much Will You Receive?
The refund amount depends on your filing status and income level:
- Single or Head of Household:
- Income up to $75,000: $200
- Income between $75,001 and $150,000: $150
- Married Filing Jointly or Qualifying Surviving Spouse:
- Income up to $150,000: $400
- Income between $150,001 and $300,000: $300
- Married Filing Separately: Use the single filer scale ($200 or $150).
These are one-time, non-refundable payments and will not affect any future state or federal tax refunds.
When Will Checks Be Sent?
The mass mailing begins in October 2025 and will continue through November and possibly December because over 8.2 million households qualify.
The refund will be sent to the address on your 2023 tax return.
New York’s inflation refund program is a helpful step to ease the cost of living for millions of households. With up to $400 available and no extra paperwork, eligible taxpayers can expect to see this payment automatically in their mailboxes starting October 2025.
Make sure you have filed your 2023 IT-201 tax return to qualify, and keep an eye on your mailbox for this welcome financial relief.