New Yorkers looking forward to receiving their inflation refund checks should remain vigilant regarding potential scams, as state officials have issued warnings about fraudulent attempts to solicit personal payment information. Governor Kathy Hochul alerted residents that various deceptive communications—including letters, emails, and texts—are circulating, misleading taxpayers into believing they must provide their financial details to claim the state payout of up to $400.
Officials reiterated that these claims are false. Eligibility for the refund extends to approximately 8 million households, including 1.25 million residents on Long Island, with no action required to receive the checks, which will be mailed out this fall.
The New York State Tax Department and the Department of Finance emphasized that they do not request personal information through email or text messages. Residents who encounter such scams are advised to promptly delete the communications, report them to either the state Tax Department or the IRS, and block the sender.
Governor Hochul underscored the simplicity of the process for eligible New Yorkers. “New Yorkers do not have to do anything to receive an inflation refund check outside of meeting the eligibility requirements,” she stated. She further clarified that neither the Tax Department nor the IRS would initiate contact for personal information.
The forthcoming checks are part of a rebate program tied to increased state revenue from sales tax, driven by inflation causing higher consumer prices. This program leverages that surplus revenue to issue rebate checks.
To qualify for the checks, residents must have filed a tax return for the 2023 tax year and cannot be claimed as dependents on someone else’s tax return. The rebate amounts vary based on income: joint filers earning $150,000 or less are set to receive $400, while those earning between $150,000 and $300,000 will get $300. Single filers making no more than $75,000 are eligible for a $200 payment, and individuals earning between $75,000 and $150,000 can expect $150.
This initiative aims to provide financial relief to residents amid ongoing inflationary pressures and underscores the need for public awareness to mitigate the risks posed by scammers.
