Millions of New Yorkers will start receiving their so-called “inflation refund checks” in the fall, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday.
Roughly 8.2 million households are slated to qualify for the relief payments as part of the state’s $254 billion budget plan.
The direct payments of up to $400 will start going out to 8.2 million eligible tax filers starting in October and will continue through November.
“Starting in October, over 8 million New Yorkers will get an inflation refund because it’s simple — this is your money and we’re putting it back in your pockets,” Hochul said in a statement.
Those who are eligible will have the checks mailed directly to them — and there’s no need to sign up, the governor’s office said.
To qualify, residents must have filed a New York State income tax return for the 2023 tax year.
They must also have a state adjusted gross income of $150,000 or less for individuals, or $300,000 or less for joint tax filers.
The amount of the check is set to vary depending on income and filing status.
Individual filers earning $75,000 or less will receive $200, for example, while those earning between $75,000.01 and $150,000 will receive $150.
The measure is being touted as a way to help New Yorkers cope with the rising cost of living.
“I’ll never stop fighting to help your family address the rising cost of living — and that’s why I also delivered on my promise to cut taxes for the middle class, expand the child tax credit and ensure free school meals for every student,” Hochul said.