By Y.M. Lowy

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced Friday that the state has started sending its inflation refund checks, worth up to $400, to 8.2 million households. Deliveries will begin today and continue through October and November. Eligible residents do not need to apply or sign up to receive a check.

“Starting today, we’re sending inflation refund checks to over 8 million New Yorkers because it’s simple — this is your money and we’re putting it back in your pockets,” Hochul said in a statement. 

The checks are part of Hochul’s ongoing efforts to ease the financial burden on New Yorkers amid rising inflation. Earlier this year, she expanded the Child Tax Credit to up to $1,000 per child and announced universal free school meals.

There are no age restrictions. Checks will be sent to residents who filed a 2023 New York State income tax return, fall within the income thresholds, and were not claimed as a dependent on another return.

Hochul emphasized that the state’s increased revenue from sales tax should be returned to residents, with the refunds serving as a direct way to put money back in people’s pockets.

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