New York is putting cash back in residents’ pockets for the first time to fight inflation. As part of the 2025–2026 state budget, Governor Kathy Hochul rolled out a brand-new refund program to help New Yorkers hit hard by rising prices.

Announced on May 6, 2025, these inflation refund checks are built into the state’s latest budget. Hochul made it clear: the goal is relief. New York raked in more tax revenue than expected last year, so now, some of that money is coming back to taxpayers.

Who Qualifies for the Refund?

To get a check, you need to be a full-year New York resident and have filed a 2023 state tax return (Form IT-201). That is the first box to check. You also can’t have been claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return.

Gov. Kathy / IG / The state is using adjusted gross income (AGI) from your 2023 return to figure out if you qualify and how much you will get. The lower your income, the bigger the refund.

The checks aren’t huge, but they are something. If you filed single or married separately and made $75,000 or less, you will get $200. If you made up to $150,000, you will get $150. Married couples filing jointly can get up to $400 if their AGI is under $150,000.

Heads of household and qualifying surviving spouses are also covered. The refund drops slightly if your income falls into the mid-tier range. Everything is based on your 2023 tax info. So, check your return.

When Are the Checks Coming?

Mark your calendar. Checks start going out in late September 2025. They won’t all hit mailboxes at once, but the mailing will stretch across several weeks.

And they are coming in only paper checks. No direct deposit, even if that is how you usually get your refund. New York is mailing these to the address on your most recent tax return. If you have moved, please update your information now through your NYS Online Services account.

Gov. Kathy / IG / If you qualify, the state government will send your check automatically. There is no application, no online form, no waiting in line.

However, if you didn’t file a 2023 New York tax return, you are out. But it is not too late. You can still file your 2023 return now to become eligible. That includes seniors or others who might not usually file. This is your window.

Also, if you were a part-year resident or only earned New York-source income but lived elsewhere, you’re out of luck. Only full-year New York residents can claim this refund.

Inflation hasn’t been kind. Groceries, gas, rent, and everything cost more. New York collected more in sales tax than expected, thanks to those price hikes. This refund is a way to give a bit of that money back.

Will the Checks Be Delayed or Reduced?

Nope. These aren’t like regular refunds. They won’t be held back for unpaid debts, student loans, or back taxes. What you are owed is what you’ll get.

There is no pattern to the mailing order, either. Don’t panic if your neighbor gets a check before you. It is not based on ZIP code. Timing can vary depending on processing and postal speed.