New York State has shocked many by confirming that up to $400 in inflation refund checks will be automatically sent to millions of residents—no applications required.
This one-time payment aims to ease the strain of rising living costs. Here’s the full breakdown of who qualifies, how much, and when it’s arriving—straight from the latest official guidance.
Who Gets the $400 — Eligibility at a Glance
| Filing Status | 2023 AGI Threshold | Refund Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single filers | Up to $75,000 | $200 |
| Single filers | $75,001 – $150,000 | $150 |
| Married filing jointly | Up to $150,000 | $400 |
| Married filing jointly | $150,001 – $300,000 | $300 |
| Married filing separately | Up to $75,000 | $200 |
| Married filing separately | $75,001 – $150,000 | $150 |
| Head of household | Up to $75,000 | $200 |
| Head of household | $75,001 – $150,000 | $150 |
| Qualified surviving spouse | Up to $150,000 | $400 |
| Qualified surviving spouse | $150,001 – $300,000 | $300 |
When Will the Checks Arrive?
- The inflation refunds will start mailing out in mid‑October 2025 across New York State, continuing through November.
- All eligible filers with a 2023 Form IT‑201 on file, not claimed as dependents, and meeting income criteria will receive the automatic payment.
- These are paper checks—even if your tax refund was direct‑deposited—sent to the address on your most recent return.
- Mailings are not sorted by zip code or region, so delivery timing may vary across households.
Why This Matters
This initiative, part of New York’s 2025–2026 state budget, redistributes surplus sales-tax revenue as direct financial help rather than letting it sit in the treasury.
Governor Hochul emphasizes that this is “your money… we’re putting it back in your pockets.”
New Yorkers, get ready! If you filed your 2023 tax return and meet the income requirements, a one-time payment up to $400 is headed your way—starting mid‑October 2025 and continuing all through November.
No form-filling. No apps. Just relief landing sooner than many expected.
