$400 Checks Are Coming to Millions in New York — No Application Needed!

If you live in New York, there’s a bit of good news on the horizon: a one-time inflation refund check—worth up to $400—is coming your way this fall. And the best part?
You don’t need to apply for it. If you filed your 2023 state taxes and meet the income requirements, you’re probably already in line to receive it.

Let’s break down what this payment is, who’s getting it, and when to expect it.

What Is the $400 Refund, Exactly?

As part of New York’s 2025–2026 budget plan, the state has set aside money to help residents deal with inflation and the rising cost of living. This refund is meant to ease the pressure a bit—whether that’s rent, groceries, or just everyday expenses.

The money comes from a surplus in sales tax revenue, and the state decided to return some of it to the people who need it most.

Who’s Eligible?

To qualify for this refund, here’s what you need:

• You filed a 2023 New York State tax return (Form IT-201)

• You were not claimed as a dependent

• Your income falls within the state’s refund brackets

How much you’ll get depends on your income and filing status:

• $400: Married couples filing jointly, earning up to $150,000

• $300: Married couples filing jointly, earning between $150,001 and $300,000

• $200: Single filers earning up to $75,000

• $150: Single filers earning between $75,001 and $150,000

If you meet the criteria, you’re automatically in line to receive a check.

No Applications, No Extra Steps

Here’s something rare for a government program: you don’t have to fill out a form, go online, or apply at all. If you qualify, the state will automatically mail you a paper check based on the information from your 2023 tax return.

That’s right—paper checks only, no direct deposit. So it’s important that the address on your most recent return is still accurate. If you’ve moved, now’s a good time to update your info with the New York State Tax Department.

When Will Checks Be Sent?

Checks will start going out in mid-October 2025 and continue through November. They’ll be mailed in batches, which means not everyone will receive theirs at the same time.

There’s no tracking or scheduled delivery date. Just keep an eye on your mailbox during those months.

Don’t Get Fooled by Scammers

This kind of refund often attracts scams. Remember:

• You don’t need to pay to receive your check

• No one from the government will call or email you asking for your bank info

• There’s no website you need to register on to “claim” your money

If someone contacts you about this payment and it seems suspicious, ignore it or report it. Stick with official updates from New York State’s Department of Taxation and Finance.

If you filed a New York tax return in 2023 and fall within the income brackets, you’re likely going to get an inflation refund check this fall. You don’t have to apply, you don’t need to take any action, and the money will come through the mail.

It’s not a huge amount—but in times like these, even a few hundred dollars can go a long way.

Want help checking your address or figuring out your eligibility? I can walk you through that, too.