More than 8 million households will receive inflation relief checks of up to $400, approved in the 2025-2026 state budget. The payments, based on 2023 tax returns, will be sent starting in October 2025. The amount varies based on marital status and income, with no additional paperwork required.
To qualify, taxpayers must have filed Form IT-201 in 2023 and have a New York adjusted gross income (NY AGI) within certain limits. For example, single individuals with incomes up to $75,000 will receive $200, while married couples filing jointly and earning up to $150,000 will receive $400. Individuals claimed as dependents are not eligible.
What should I do to receive the $400 stimulus payment?
Initially, all those marked as eligible do not need to complete any formalities or procedures. Mailings will begin in October 2025 and continue through November, with no regional order. Physical checks will arrive by mail, with no direct deposit option. The New York Department of Taxation and Finance will manage the process, requiring no additional action from recipients.
The final amounts differ from preliminary proposals. Initially, $500 was considered for low-income families, but the final budget adjusted the figures. The changes are due to legislative negotiations and funding availability, according to statements from Governor Kathy Hochul.
No applications or contacting the tax department are required. Payments will be issued automatically to those who qualified on their 2023 return. There are no age restrictions, as long as you are not a dependent on another return.
Although some online media outlets claim the payment will begin in May, this is incorrect: the expected month is October 2025, and the discrepancy is attributed to an error, as the state budget sets later dates.
The checks will be distributed over six weeks, with no geographic priority; the state will determine the order based on the most practical logistical strategy. Taxpayers should expect their checks by mail, as no alternative means of bank deposit or cash were discussed.
A bigger stimulus package for New Yorkers
The $2 billion program is funded with excess sales tax revenue, driven by inflation. The measure seeks to return funds to citizens affected by rising costs of living, Hochul explained in her May 14, 2025, announcement.
The checks are part of a package that includes tax cuts for the middle class and free school meals for 2.7 million students. These initiatives, according to the state government, will reduce family expenses by up to $1,600 per child annually. Those who want to know if they are eligible can visit ny.gov/inflationrefund.