New York’s One-Time Inflation Refund: Who Qualifies and How to Get Yours
If you live in New York, you’ve likely felt the pressure of rising living costs — from higher grocery prices to increasing rent.
In fact, Realtor.com reported that during the first quarter of 2025, the median rent in New York City rose by 5.6% compared to the previous year.
To help ease this financial strain, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance has introduced a one-time inflation refund check — a measure from Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2025–2026 state budget designed to return extra cash to qualifying taxpayers.
If you filed a New York state tax return for 2023, you may be eligible for this refund. Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Is Eligible and How Much Can You Get?
If you filed Form IT-201 as a full-year resident of New York in the 2023 tax year and were not claimed as a dependent on another person’s return, you may qualify.
The amount of your refund depends on your filing status and adjusted gross income (AGI):
| Filing Status | AGI | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 or less | $200 |
| $75,001 – $150,000 | $150 | |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 or less | $400 |
| $150,001 – $300,000 | $300 | |
| Married Filing Separately | $75,000 or less | $200 |
| $75,001 – $150,000 | $150 | |
| Head of Household | $75,000 or less | $200 |
| $75,001 – $150,000 | $150 |
How to Claim and When to Expect Your Check
There’s no application process — if you qualify, your refund will be mailed automatically.
The distribution began in late September 2025 and will continue through the fall.
A few important details:
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The refund is sent as a paper check, even if your regular state refund was deposited electronically.
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Mailings are not organized by region or ZIP code, so delivery times may vary.
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The check is mailed to your most recent address on file with the NY Department of Taxation and Finance (usually your last tax return address).
If you’ve moved recently, verify your address with the IRS or state tax office to avoid delays.
Tips for Taxpayers
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Confirm Your Address
Make sure the NY Tax Department has your current mailing address, especially if you relocated after filing your 2023 return. -
Watch Your Mailbox
Expect your check to arrive anytime from late September through autumn. Be patient — timing varies. -
Avoid Scams
Be cautious of emails, calls, or texts asking for personal or bank information to “release” your check.
The Department will not request extra documents or payments. If you receive such communication, it’s a scam — ignore it or report it.
Why This Matters for International Students and Nonresidents
Many international students and professionals file New York state tax returns every year.
If you were a full-year resident of New York in 2023 and filed Form IT-201, you may be entitled to this inflation refund.
Even if you don’t qualify, this initiative is an important reminder to stay informed about both federal and state-level tax updates — as they can directly affect your refund eligibility.
Need Help Confirming Your Eligibility?
If you’re unsure whether you qualify or need to update your address or filing details, J1 Summer Tax Back can guide you step-by-step.
We specialize in tax filing and refund support for nonresidents and international students in the U.S.
Don’t let your refund slip through the cracks — let our team help you verify your eligibility today.
J1 Summer Tax Back — Simplifying taxes for nonresidents.