New York State is providing two key financial relief programs for eligible residents in 2026. These initiatives, the Inflation Refund Check and the School Tax Relief (STAR) Program, aim to deliver direct financial support to millions of New Yorkers.
These programs are designed to help residents manage the high cost of living and persistent inflation.
1. New York Inflation Refund Check
This is a one-time payment being sent to millions of eligible New York residents to help offset the impact of inflation. The state began mailing these checks at the end of September 2026, and the distribution will continue through October and November 2026.
How to Receive the Payment
You do not need to apply for this payment. The New York Department of Taxation and Finance automatically sends a paper check to the most current address on file if you qualify.
Calculate Your 2026 COLA Increase →These payments are sent by mail, not as a direct deposit, even if you received your tax refund via direct deposit.
Who is Eligible for the Inflation Refund?
To qualify for this payment, you must meet all of the following conditions:
- You were a full-year New York State resident for the 2023 tax year.
- You filed a New York State resident income tax return (Form IT-201) for 2023.
- You were not claimed as a dependent on another person’s 2023 tax return.
Payment Amounts
The refund amount is based on your 2023 New York Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and your filing status.
| Filing Status | 2023 NY Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) | Refund Amount |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 or less | $400 |
| More than $150,000 up to $300,000 | $300 | |
| Qualifying Surviving Spouse | $150,000 or less | $400 |
| More than $150,000 up to $300,000 | $300 | |
| Single | $75,000 or less | $200 |
| More than $75,000 up to $150,000 | $150 | |
| Head of Household | $75,000 or less | $200 |
| More than $75,000 up to $150,000 | $150 | |
| Married Filing Separately | $75,000 or less | $200 |
| More than $75,000 up to $150,000 | $150 |
2. School Tax Relief (STAR) Program
The STAR program provides property tax relief to eligible New York homeowners. For new applicants, this benefit is paid as a credit (a check or direct deposit) rather than an exemption on the tax bill.
The benefit amount varies widely based on location and school district, but it can provide several hundred dollars in relief.
How to Apply for the STAR Credit
New homeowners or those not already receiving the benefit must register with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. You can apply online through the state’s “Homeowner Benefit Portal.”
You can also register by phone by calling (518) 457-2036.
Who is Eligible for the STAR Credit?
The program has two levels, Basic and Enhanced.
Basic STAR
- You must own and live in your primary residence.
- The combined 2023 income of all resident owners and their spouses must be $500,000 or less.
- There is no age restriction for the Basic STAR credit.
Enhanced STAR (for Seniors)
- You must own and live in your primary residence.
- You must be 65 or older. If the property is jointly owned by spouses or siblings, only one owner must be at least 65.
- For the 2026-2026 benefit, the combined 2023 income of all owners and their spouses must be $107,300 or less.
Once you register for the STAR credit, you do not need to re-register each year. The state will automatically review your eligibility and send you the credit if you qualify.
