If you’re a New Yorker earning under $300,000, you might be days away from receiving a surprise inflation relief check worth up to $400. With the cost of groceries, rent, and fuel still biting into household budgets, the state has approved millions in direct payments to help residents stay afloat. But how much will you get? When will it arrive? And does your income or tax status affect your check.
What Is the 2025 Inflation Refund and Why Is New York Sending Checks?
To fight back against stubborn inflation and return surplus funds from skyrocketing sales tax collections, New York State launched the “Inflation Refund” program — a one-time payment designed to give direct relief to middle- and working-class families.
The refund is part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s $254 billion state budget for 2025. It aims to put cash directly in the hands of over 8 million residents who have felt the sting of rising costs.
These payments are not taxable and you don’t have to apply — they’ll be sent out automatically.
When Will Checks Arrive?
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance confirmed that checks will start going out in mid-October 2025. Because of the volume — millions of payments — it will take several weeks for all eligible households to receive theirs.
If your address has changed since your last tax filing, update it with the department as soon as possible to avoid delays.
How Much Will You Receive?
Your adjusted gross income (AGI) and filing status from your 2023 state income tax return will determine how much you receive:
For Single Filers:
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AGI up to $75,000 → $200
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AGI between $75,000–$150,000 → $150
For Married Filing Jointly:
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AGI up to $150,000 → $400
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AGI between $150,000–$300,000 → $300
For Head of Household:
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AGI up to $75,000 → $200
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AGI between $75,000–$150,000 → $150
Eligibility tip: You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return to qualify.
Bonus: Extra Relief for Families with Kids
In addition to the refund checks, New York is doubling down on support for families through an expanded Child Tax Credit. Starting this year:
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Families with children under 4 could get up to $1,000 per child
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Families with children aged 4–16 may receive up to $500 per child
This change affects nearly 2.75 million children statewide and doubles the average credit from $472 to $943. It’s automatically calculated when you file your 2025 return.
What You Should Do Now
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No application needed: If you filed a 2023 NY State tax return, you’re already in the system.
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Update your address: Make sure the state has your current mailing address.
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Track mail delivery: Watch for checks starting mid-October 2025.
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Look out for scams: The state will not call, text, or email you for your banking info.
Bottom Line
If you’re a taxpayer in New York with a moderate income, you’re likely eligible for a one-time refund check worth up to $400 — no strings attached. Combine that with expanded child credits, and families could see over $1,000 in new benefits heading their way this year.
This is one of the largest state-level economic relief packages New York has offered in recent years, and it comes just as many households are trying to make ends meet in an unpredictable economy.
