New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the state’s first-ever “inflation refund checks,” with some payments reaching up to $400. The New York Department of Taxation and Finance stated that refunds will begin mailing to eligible taxpayers by late September 2025, benefiting over 8 million residents. The distribution will occur over multiple weeks, with no regional or zip code-based scheduling. Officials warned that recipients may receive checks at different times, emphasizing that the process is not tied to location.

Hochul described the initiative as a “one-time statement” aimed at alleviating financial strain. “We hear you, New Yorkers. If we can put money back in your pockets through an ‘inflation rebate,’ then you know we care about you,” she said during a public event in Albany. The checks will target individuals earning under $150,000 annually and families making less than $300,000, based on 2023 tax returns. Dependents claimed on 2023 filings will not qualify.

Hochul acknowledged variations in delivery timelines, urging patience. “If your neighbor gets it and you don’t, don’t start calling us,” she said. “Give us October and November, OK?” The program requires no forms or additional steps for eligible taxpayers.