Governor Hochul Announces $400 Inflation Checks for 8.2M NY Households This Fall

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that over 8.2 million households in New York State will receive inflation refund checks this fall. These checks, worth up to $400, will be mailed automatically to eligible residents starting in October and continuing through November.

There’s no need to apply, register, or take any action to receive the payment. This refund is part of the state’s 2026 budget plan, which also includes tax relief for middle-income earners, an expanded Child Tax Credit of up to $1,000 per child, and free school meals to help families save up to $1,600 per student.

Putting Money Back in New Yorkers’ Pockets

“Starting in October, over eight million New Yorkers will receive an inflation refund,” Governor Hochul said. “It’s simple — this is your money, and we’re returning it to you. I will always fight to lower living costs and support working families.

That’s why I’ve also followed through on my promise to cut middle-class taxes, increase the child tax credit, and provide free meals in schools for every child.”

Senate Leader Says Budget Supports Working Families

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins emphasized that a state budget reflects what leaders care about. “While national leaders push tax cuts for the wealthy and big companies, we’re focused on helping the middle class.

By working with Governor Hochul and the Assembly, we’ve passed a budget that puts people first. These refund checks are part of our effort to support working individuals and families and ease financial stress for millions of New Yorkers.”

Assembly Speaker Backs Effort to Help Households

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said these checks will give people the freedom to spend or save as they need.

“This shows how serious the Assembly Majority is about helping hardworking families. We are committed to making life easier, whether that means having food on the table or keeping a roof over your head.”

Queens Borough President Praises State Leaders

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said these payments are especially important for families struggling with poverty. “Even a small amount of extra money can help with essentials like rent or food.

This economy is still dealing with the chaos caused by Donald Trump’s tariffs, and Queens is thankful to Governor Hochul and the legislature for making these refunds happen. Our office is proud to work with the state to make life more affordable for families in our borough.”

Bronx Leader Thanks Governor for Direct Help

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson praised the Governor’s leadership and care for everyday people.

“These inflation checks are badly needed by families across the state who are doing their best in a tough economy. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for acting to reduce financial pressure. This is leadership that listens and takes real action, and it helps the people who need it most.”

City Council Member Supports Refund Initiative

New York City Council Member Chris Banks highlighted how inflation has made life harder for low-income communities. “Prices have gone up too much for too long.

These refund checks will give people a break — they might be the reason someone can pay their rent or buy food. I support Governor Hochul’s decision to return money to the taxpayers. Let hardworking people decide how to spend what they’ve earned.”

Council Member Felder Backs Giving Back to the People

Council Member Simcha Felder added simply, “More money in people’s pockets is always a good thing!”

Why the State Is Sending Refund Checks

Inflation has made everything more expensive, from groceries to gas. This has led to higher sales tax collections by the state. Governor Hochul believes this extra money should go back to the people who paid it — hardworking New Yorkers. That’s why 8.2 million households will receive refund checks this fall.

How to Find Out if You Qualify for a Refund

To qualify for a refund check based on your 2023 taxes, you must have:

• Filed Form IT-201, the New York State Resident Income Tax Return
• Met the income requirements listed below
• Not been claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return

If you meet those rules, you don’t need to apply — your check will come in the mail.

How Much Money Will You Get?

Here’s how much you can expect based on your 2023 income:

• Joint filers making up to $150,000: $400 check
• Joint filers making between $150,001 and $300,000: $300 check
• Single filers making up to $75,000: $200 check
• Single filers making between $75,001 and $150,000: $150 check

There are no age restrictions. If you meet the income guidelines, filed taxes, and weren’t claimed as a dependent, you will receive a check automatically.

When Will Checks Be Mailed?

Checks will start going out in October and continue into November. Not everyone will receive their check at the same time. Delivery is not based on region or zip code, so your neighbor might get theirs before or after you.

Where to Get More Information

To learn more about the refund program, visit ny.gov/inflationrefund. The site includes eligibility details, frequently asked questions, and updates from the New York State Tax Department.

Regional Breakdown: Who’s Getting the Checks?

Here’s how the 8.2 million inflation refund checks will be distributed across the state:

Region	Number of Recipients
New York City	3.53 million
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
TOTAL	8.2 million

Every part of the state will benefit from this effort to ease the impact of rising prices.