Governor Hochul Announces Inflation Refund Checks Are Now Being Sent to 8.2 Million New York Households

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State's first-ever inflation refund checks up to $400 are now being sent to 8.2 million households statewide. Starting today, checks will be mailed directly to eligible New Yorkers, with deliveries to continue throughout October and November. There is no need to apply, sign up or do anything to receive a check. Governor Hochul secured and enacted this initiative as part of her ongoing commitment to putting money back in the pockets of New Yorkers. Earlier this year, the Governor also secured and enacted initiatives to cut taxes for the middle class to their lowest levels in 70 years, expand New York’s Child Tax Credit to up to $1,000 per child and ensure universal free school meals to save families around $1,600 per child.

“Starting today, we’re sending inflation refund checks to over 8 million New Yorkers because it's simple — this is your money and we're putting it back in your pockets,” Governor Hochul said. “I'll never stop fighting to help your family address the rising cost of living — and that's why I also delivered on my promise to cut taxes for the middle class, expand the child tax credit and ensure free school meals for every student.”

Inflation has driven the costs of everyday necessities higher and as a result, the State's revenue from the collection of sales tax has also increased. Governor Hochul believes that money belongs to hardworking New York families and should be put back in their pockets as an inflation refund — and that’s why 8.2 million households statewide will receive a check this fall.

During a time when costs are high due to inflation and the Trump Administration’s tariff policies, smaller expenses can be a hardship on families across the United States. The latest reports from the Federal Reserve show that approximately 37 percent of adults across the nation would have to borrow money or sell personal belongings to pay a $400 emergency expense using cash or its equivalent. The inflation refund checks can offer hardworking New Yorkers a cushion for smaller expenses, providing them with a sense of relief for unexpected repairs or emergencies.

Who’s Eligible for an Inflation Refund Check?
You are eligible for an inflation refund check if, for tax year 2023, you:

• Filed Form IT-201, New York State Resident Income Tax Return;
• Reported income within the qualifying thresholds below; and
• Were not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.

Joint tax filers with income up to $150,000 will receive a $400 check.

Joint tax filers with income over $150,000 but no greater than $300,000 will receive a $300 check.

Single tax filers with income up to $75,000 will receive a $200 check.

Single tax filers with incomes over $75,000 but no greater than $150,000 will receive a $150 check.

There are no age restrictions. Filers do not need to do anything to receive an inflation refund check. If you filed a tax return, are below the income thresholds, and no one else claimed you as a dependent, you will receive a check.

When Will Checks Be Delivered?
Checks will be mailed across the state starting today and deliveries will continue throughout October and November.

Your check may arrive earlier or later than your neighbors, as mailings will not be based on zip code or region.

Additional information from the New York State Tax Department can be seen at ny.gov/inflationrefund.

State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul and our strong partnership with the Assembly, we’re delivering meaningful relief to New Yorkers at a time when they need it most. As families continue to feel the strain of rising costs, these inflation refund checks of up to $400 for over 8 million households will put money directly back into their pockets. This is what it looks like when we put working people first and use our budget to reflect the values of fairness, equity, and economic support for those who need it most.”

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, “As we continue to witness unprecedented inflationary pressures across the nation, the skyrocketing cost of living has presented a significant challenge for individuals and families, compelling many to make difficult choices between essential items like food on the table or a roof over their head. The Assembly Majority was proud to support these inflation refund checks to put money back in the pockets of hard working New Yorkers. Putting New York's families first will always be our top priority and we will continue to work to make our state more affordable.”

Regional Breakdown
Inflation refund checks will be sent this fall to 8.2 million households throughout all corners of New York State. A breakdown of the number of checks going to each region can be seen below.

State Senator Kevin Parker said, “I want to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership and unwavering commitment to working families across New York. With so many households struggling to make ends meet, these inflation refund checks will provide meaningful relief and help ease the burden of rising costs. By putting money directly back into the pockets of millions of New Yorkers, Governor Hochul has shown that our state can step up and deliver real solutions that strengthen families and communities.”

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. said, “In these tough times, putting money back into the hands of hardworking New Yorkers is exactly what our state needs. The inflation refund checks offer relief without bureaucracy, aiding families in managing increasing everyday expenses while also supporting local businesses throughout New York. This is practical, focused assistance that reflects the principles of fiscal responsibility and shared prosperity I’ve advocated for in the Senate. I appreciate Governor Hochul’s efforts in helping New Yorkers with this financial assistance.”

State Senator James Sanders Jr. said, “Given the uncertainty of the current state and national economies, my constituents of Southeast Queens could use a break. The inflation refund checks up to $400 are welcome news, which is why I supported this initiative in the State Fiscal Year 2025-26 State Enacted Budget.”

State Senator Leroy Comrie said, “In Southeast Queens and across our state, families are stretching every dollar to cover groceries, rent, child care and rising energy costs. This refund respects people’s time, it arrives by mail with no application and it will help parents and seniors meet the basics as the cost of living continues to climb. It is not a cure-all, but it is meaningful, targeted help that, alongside recent tax relief, expanded child tax credits and universal free school meals, moves New York in the right direction. I look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and my colleagues to lower costs, strengthen consumer protections and keep our communities affordable.”

State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, “Inflation and the rising prices of everyday essential items have impacted all New Yorkers. The refund check issued by Governor Hochul is a meaningful way to return hard-earned money to the people who need it most. Delivering refunds to over eight million households will make a difference for families to purchase necessities and is one step toward addressing the issue of affordability for New Yorkers.”

State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, “I’m pleased that with Governor Kathy Hochul’s leadership, many New Yorkers will receive an inflation refund check this October and November. In light of increasing food, utility, and housing costs, additional dollars are a welcome sight for so many of my constituents. In addition, the federal budget cuts that Congress enacted will hurt thousands of New York’s Medicaid, SNAP, and other benefit recipients. Fortunately, New York’s leaders already know that people are hurting, and these checks will hopefully help reduce that hurt this fall.”

State Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda said, “I applaud Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to easing the financial burden on our hardworking families. This inflation relief payment of up to $400 is a direct and necessary support for millions of New Yorkers facing high living costs. I’m proud to support this initiative that puts money where it’s needed most, in the pockets of those who sustain our communities. This measure represents a concrete step toward a more equitable economic recovery across the state, especially in communities like the Bronx, where many families have been disproportionately impacted by inflation. I reaffirm my commitment to working alongside Governor Hochul to continue advancing policies that promote economic justice and strengthen the well-being of all New Yorkers.”

State Senator Jessica Ramos said, “I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for putting working families first with this inflation relief. Every dollar makes a difference right now, and this refund will help parents and neighbors stretch their budgets a little further. Together, we must keep building on this commitment to make New York more affordable for everyone.”

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “These inflation refund checks are a way to put money directly back in the hands of our community members and ease financial burdens for our households. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her efforts to make life more affordable for New Yorkers across our great state.”

State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Making life more affordable is a top priority, and these inflation refund checks are a direct way to put money back into the pockets of millions of New Yorkers, giving families the flexibility to save or spend in the way that works best for them. We’ll keep fighting for the financial relief New Yorkers deserve, and I thank Governor Hochul for her partnership in this effort.”

State Senator Sean M. Ryan said, “With families across the nation feeling the strain of inflation and higher costs due to federal tariffs, every dollar makes a difference. That’s why we remain focused on lowering costs for New Yorkers. These rebate checks are putting money back in the pockets of hardworking families at a time when they need it most.”

State Senator April Baskin said, “At a time when so many people across our state are dealing with financial hardship, whether it's buying groceries, paying a utility bill, or managing the burden of escalating medical costs, I thank Governor Hochul for securing this initiative and providing residents with some financial relief. I understand what it is like to oversee a single income household on a fixed income where every dollar counts. With these rebate checks, Governor Hochul proves again how she makes working families a priority.”

State Senator Patricia Fahy said, “While this federal government continues to slash and burn when it comes to funding essential programs that support working people, New York will continue to step up for them. These checks will give New Yorkers a bit of breathing room, but we know that there’s more work ahead to ensure that more relief reaches our working families amidst an onslaught of attacks from Washington.”

State Senator Sam Sutton said, “Families in Southern Brooklyn feel the strain of rising grocery bills, housing costs, and utilities every single day. These tax cuts and refund will provide real, immediate relief to thousands of households in our district. I applaud Governor Hochul for putting money back where it belongs — in the pockets of hardworking New Yorkers.”

Assemblymember William Colton said, “It’s not often that government returns tax revenue to its constituents, but that is precisely what is happening, beginning today, thanks to the Inflation Refund Checks that New York State is beginning to mail to over eight million households across the state whose income levels fall beneath a certain limit. This money comes at a particularly opportune time, with costs continuing to rise on a wide swath of necessities, from foodstuffs to insurance, and the holiday season right around the corner.”

Assemblymember Charles Lavine said, “At a time when the cost of living is high and our state faces crippling federal cuts, I applaud Governor Hochul for listening to the plight of so many families and helping put money back into the pockets of middle-class New Yorkers by providing much needed inflation relief to residents.”

Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, “The inflation refund checks are putting money where it belongs — back into the pockets of hardworking New Yorkers. I am grateful for the partnership of Governor Hochul and my state legislative colleagues, we are able to bring some financial relief to millions of households across our state and continue our work to make New York more affordable for the middle class.”

Assemblymember John T. McDonald III said, “Affordability is top of mind for many people and this inflation refund check program recognizes that there are efforts we can take to support our working families. Combined with other affordability initiatives advanced by the Governor, our New York State Legislature supported this program and others in the State Budget to alleviate the pressure that our residents are feeling due to inflation and actions undertaken at the federal government level. I will continue to work with my colleagues and Governor Hochul to support New Yorkers and continue to address the challenges faced in these uncertain times.”

Assemblymember Steve Otis said, “The top priority of this year’s state budget was lowering costs to New Yorkers through a variety of programs to reduce costs to families through tax cuts, inflation reduction checks, the Empire Child Care Tax credit, and other funding to support child care. The budget also reduced the property tax burden on New Yorkers by providing a $1.7 billion increase in education aid, improved funding to local governments, and $500 million in clean water funding, which primarily reduces costs to municipalities. The Inflation Refund checks help buffer costs to New York families in these increasingly uncertain economic times. Governor Hochul and the Legislature made reducing costs to New York families the highest focus of the 2025-26 state budget. It is great news that the refunds are now on the way.”

Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, “With costs rising on everything from groceries to gas, New Yorkers deserve relief. These inflation refund checks will put money back where it belongs — in the pockets of hardworking families and seniors. Thank you to Governor Hochul for delivering this essential support at a time when every dollar counts."

Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara said, “At a time when families are working harder than ever to keep up with rising costs, this refund offers welcome relief. I supported this effort because it ensures that tax dollars are being returned to the people who need them most. By delivering these checks directly to households, we’re providing practical support that families will feel right away — and I’ll continue working to build on it with long-term solutions that make life more affordable for all.”

Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages said, “Across New York, families are working hard yet still struggling to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, gas, and other essentials. People deserve relief, and that is why New York has taken action to put money back into residents’ pockets through inflation refund checks. I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in making sure millions of New Yorkers get the support they need during these challenging times.”

Assemblymember Rebecca A. Seawright said, “At a time when the cost of everyday essentials has stretched family budgets to the limit, Governor Hochul’s inflation refund checks will provide real and immediate relief. This initiative puts money back into the pockets of millions of hardworking New Yorkers, including countless seniors on fixed incomes who are among the hardest hit by rising costs. As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Aging, I applaud the Governor’s leadership in delivering this meaningful support to households across our state.”

Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn said, “I applaud Governor Hochul for providing this much-needed relief to hardworking families. With costs still rising on everyday necessities like groceries, housing, and transportation, these inflation refund checks will make a real difference for families across New York State who are stretching every dollar. I am proud to stand with Governor Hochul and celebrate this initiative, which puts resources directly into the hands of New Yorkers and helps ease the burden on communities throughout our state during these challenging times."

Assemblymember Pamela J. Hunter said, “Families across Central New York are feeling the strain of higher prices on everyday necessities. These inflation refund checks will provide some welcome relief at a time when many households are stretched thin. For individuals and families in our community, this support helps ease the burden and offers some breathing room as we navigate the rising cost of living.”

Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said, “Governor Hochul’s leadership in delivering direct relief to over 8 million households across New York State is exactly what families need right now. With the cost of living still high, these inflation refund checks will help working families cover basic necessities — from groceries to school supplies. I’m proud to support a state budget that prioritizes putting money back into the pockets of everyday New Yorkers, and I thank the Governor for her continued commitment to building a more affordable New York.”

Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato said, “New York is stepping up to help families tackle the ongoing affordability crisis - especially under the leadership of Governor Hochul. Through the inflation refund checks millions of New Yorkers will get necessary relief and it’s an honor to partner with our Governor to make this a reality."

Assemblymember Clyde Vanel said, “New Yorkers will soon receive monetary relief that will provide real, meaningful support to their lives thanks to the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul. With the cost of living continuing to rise, this extra boost will help families cover essentials like groceries, housing, and childcare. With this critical support, New York is signaling that our state government is listening and taking action to ease the burden on hardworking New Yorkers.“

Assemblymember Patrick B. Burke said, “Governor Hochul saw the affordability crisis arise before anyone else and took decisive action to address it. While Donald Trump is making everything we buy more expensive through his tariffs, Governor Hochul knows that every dollar matters to working families in New York.”

Assemblymember Judy Griffin said, “I was proud to support the inflation refund check initiative in this year’s state budget. Returning excess sales tax revenue to our residents is the right thing to do. I am pleased that 1.2 million residents on Long Island will receive a refund check and I hope that these funds help to make life just a bit easier for my constituents this fall. I thank the Governor for her leadership on this initiative. County governments, whose sales tax revenues are also up due to the rising cost of goods, could look to emulate this program.”

Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas said, “It’s always good news when we can deliver real relief to New Yorkers. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul and Speaker Carl Heastie for ensuring hardworking families get money back in their pockets. At a time when the affordability crisis is squeezing families in New York City and across our state — whether it’s the rising cost of housing, food, or basic necessities — every dollar of relief matters. This year we’ve taken significant steps to help people save and thrive, and this is another important victory.”

Assemblymember Chantel Jackson said, “Families across New York are feeling the pressure of rising costs, and every dollar makes a difference. I commend Governor Hochul for enacting this initiative, which ensures over 8 million New Yorkers will receive direct financial relief without unnecessary barriers. These checks provide real, tangible support for our neighbors at a time when budgets are stretched thin, and they reaffirm the importance of our government being responsive to the everyday struggles our communities face.”

Assemblymember Jen Lunsford said, “Every day New Yorkers are faced with rising costs of groceries, clothes, school supplies and home repairs. At the state level, we need to find creative ways to relieve the pressure on our hardworking families. That's why we've taken the unexpected surplus of sales tax realized from these inflation-related cost increases and are returning them to our residents. Here in the Finger Lakes alone, 513,000 New Yorkers will receive a tax relief check. Combined with STAR, Enhanced STAR, increased Child Tax Credits, Universal Free School Meals and the previously passed middle class tax cut, we are putting thousands of dollars back into New Yorkers' pockets every year.”

Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar said, “Through the clear-sighted leadership of Governor Hochul, we are delivering real relief to everyday New Yorkers crushed by rising prices. Inflation is eroding paychecks and making essentials unaffordable — groceries, gas, rent, and utilities are up, while wages lag. That’s why we’re sending inflation refund checks directly to families — no extra steps, no red tape. This money goes straight back into households, helping millions of New Yorkers cover basics and stay afloat as prices have surged 24.3 percent since 2020. This effort, alongside our broader work in Albany, shows our commitment to a New York where families can pay the bills, save for the future, and stand on their own two feet.”

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “With inflation driving up the cost of groceries, utilities, and other essentials, families here in New York deserve real relief. From day one, my focus as Assemblymember has been making sure the families of Western New York get the support they need to keep up with rising costs. That’s why I fought to ensure this year’s budget included direct inflation refunds for hardworking households. Beginning this fall, thousands of families right here in our community will receive checks of up to $400, because these dollars belong in your pockets, not sitting in Albany.”

Assemblymember Brian Cunningham said, “Too many New Yorkers are feeling the strain of rising costs on everything from groceries to housing. By delivering these inflation refund checks directly to families, Governor Hochul is ensuring that working people see real relief without having to navigate red tape. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to putting money back into the pockets of New Yorkers and making life more affordable for the communities we serve.”

Assemblymember Manny De Los Santos said, “Every day, I hear from families in our community who are working hard but still struggling with the rising costs of food, rent, and other basic needs. These inflation refund checks will make a real difference for millions of New Yorkers by putting money directly back in the pockets of hard-working New Yorkers. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for taking action to ease the burden on working families and for making affordability a top priority.”

Assemblymember Nikki Lucas said, “I applaud Governor Hochul and I am proud to have been a part of the negotiations to provide relief to hard working New Yorkers during a time when costs are climbing for everyday family items. The residents in the 60th Assembly District which includes East New York, Canarsie and Brownsville will have some relief when the checks hit their mailboxes this week. I look forward to finding additional solutions to support families and keep the economic flow of funding running through our small businesses and communities.”

Assemblymember George Alvarez said, “Governor Hochul's decision to provide inflation refund checks to millions of New Yorkers is a rational and compassionate measure that directly tackles the financial pressures that families are facing. By returning these funds to taxpayers, the Governor demonstrates her dedication to fairness, budgetary discipline, and the well-being of our communities. This plan will give significant assistance to homes across our state, and I applaud her leadership in making government work for the people it serves.”

Assemblymember Grace Lee said, “Inflation refund checks deliver much needed relief at a time when New Yorkers are facing a rising cost of living and Trump’s policies are making it harder for working families to put food on the table. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and her collaboration with the legislature, families are receiving direct support and money is going back into the pockets of millions of New Yorkers.”

Assemblymember Dana Levenberg said, “While President Trump's policies cause prices to skyrocket, his GOP-led Congress is doing nothing to help struggling families. I'm proud that my colleagues and I in the State Legislature were able to partner with Governor Hochul to provide these relief checks for New Yorkers. We will continue doing whatever we can to serve as a buffer against the chaos coming from Washington.”

Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky said, “Nearly one million taxpayers in our region will receive an Inflation Refund Check in the coming weeks. This program is part of a broad effort by State government to support our residents — including through the expanded child tax credit and funding for childcare, education, health care, transportation, and the return to solvency of the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. I am proud to be part of a Legislature that is committed to working with Governor Hochul to make life better and more affordable for the people of New York State.”

Assemblymember Tony Simone said, “The cost of living for too many New Yorkers has grown out of control due to inflation. I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership to rapidly put money back in the pockets of those who need it.”

Assemblymember Jordan J.G. Wright said, “Be it groceries, gasoline or school supplies, Harlem residents are not alone in grappling with today’s affordability crisis. From electricity to rent, monthly bills are tipping the inflation scale, making paying for the start of a new school year particularly daunting as so many among us work overtime to be able to put food on the table. This fall, Harlem residents that make less than $150,000 a year will receive an inflation refund check up to $400 — a financial boost that our community needs and deserves. The inflation refund checks are a welcomed example of government responding to the needs of the people, and I’m proud to have helped secure funding for the program in the most recent state budget. Like a shot of adrenaline for those enduring the rising cost of necessities, this refund will help to make these next few months a bit easier on those who need it most.”

Assemblymember Patrick Carroll said, “Inflation has driven up the cost of living while wages have remained stagnant. That’s why my top priority in Albany has been to deliver real relief for middle-class and working families and to make Rockland County and all of New York more affordable. Governor Hochul shares this commitment. Under her leadership, middle-class taxes have been cut to their lowest levels in decades, and millions of New Yorkers have already received meaningful tax credits. Now, with new inflation refund checks, even more money will go directly back into the pockets of hardworking families.”

Assemblymember Rebecca Kassay said, “These inflation refund checks will provide some much-needed relief to millions of hardworking New York residents at a time when cost-of-living challenges are squeezing families and individuals across the state. I thank Governor Hochul for her efforts to ease financial burdens on New Yorkers, and look forward to continuing work alongside my State colleagues and local communities to secure additional affordability measures that help our communities not just survive but thrive here in New York State.”

Assemblymember Tommy John Schiavoni said, “Due to the high inflationary environment that New York has experienced in the past several years, the state coffers experienced higher than expected sales tax revenue. I applaud Governor Kathy Hochul’s initiative to give taxpayer dollars back to working New Yorkers. These checks will go a long way for many who are struggling to keep up with rising costs as the state addresses a nationwide affordability crisis.”

Assemblymember Aron Wieder said, “Families across Rockland are feeling the pressure of rising costs. These inflation refund checks will provide real, immediate relief and put money back where it belongs — in the pockets of hardworking New Yorkers.”