Governor Hochul Announces Up to $400 Inflation Refund Checks for 8.2 Million New Yorkers This Fall

Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled a major relief initiative aimed at helping millions of New Yorkers cope with rising costs: inflation refund checks of up to $400 will be distributed to 8.2 million households beginning in October. The first-of-its-kind program for New York State was secured as part of the FY 2026 State Budget, reflecting the Governor’s continued commitment to easing financial burdens for working and middle-class families. Eligible recipients will automatically receive the checks in the mail during October and November—there is no application, sign-up process, or action required to qualify.

The inflation refund initiative is just one component of a broader economic relief strategy embedded in the latest state budget. In addition to these direct payments, Governor Hochul and state lawmakers have expanded New York’s Child Tax Credit (now offering up to $1,000 per child), secured universal free school meals across the state (saving families an estimated $1,600 per child), and implemented the lowest middle-class tax rates in New York in 70 years. These combined efforts aim to address long-standing affordability issues and help stabilize household budgets amid inflationary pressures.

Refund eligibility is based on 2023 tax returns. Joint filers earning up to $150,000 will receive $400; those earning between $150,001 and $300,000 will get $300. Single filers earning up to $75,000 will receive $200, while those earning between $75,001 and $150,000 will receive $150. There are no age restrictions, and anyone who meets the income criteria and was not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return will qualify. New Yorkers can visit ny.gov/inflationrefund for full eligibility guidelines.

State and local leaders across New York have praised the program. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins emphasized the importance of prioritizing working families over corporate interests, while Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie called the refund another step toward making everyday life easier for hardworking New Yorkers. Borough leaders echoed the sentiment, noting that the additional funds could be critical for food, rent, and basic household needs during difficult economic times.

The funds are being returned, in part, because of higher-than-expected state revenue from increased sales tax collections, which rose alongside consumer prices. Rather than hold onto the surplus, the Governor’s office has chosen to return it to taxpayers—especially those who have been most impacted by inflation.

Checks will be mailed in waves, not based on zip code, and delivery times may vary from household to household. For the most up-to-date information and official updates, New Yorkers are encouraged to monitor the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance’s website.

This marks a significant effort by the Hochul administration to use state resources to buffer the cost of living and affirm the government’s role in supporting working families—not just through tax policy, but through direct financial relief.