How to Claim the $500 Stimulus Check in New York – Eligibility Criteria and Step by Step Process

Published On: April 8, 2025

With inflation making everyday essentials harder to afford, New York State is stepping in with some much-needed relief. Through its Inflation Relief Program, the state is offering a one-time $500 stimulus check to eligible residents. The best part? You don’t even need to apply. As long as you meet a few simple requirements, the money will be issued automatically after you file your 2025 state taxes.

This guide breaks down who qualifies, when the payment is coming, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.

Overview

New York’s $500 stimulus is part of a $3 billion statewide plan to fight inflation’s impact. This isn’t just another COVID-style federal payment. It’s a state-funded initiative aimed specifically at working families, middle-income earners, and retirees struggling with the rising costs of food, housing, and energy.

Here’s a quick glance at what you need to know:

Topic	Details
Program Name	New York Inflation Relief Program
Stimulus Amount	Up to $500
Eligibility (Single Filers)	Income up to $150,000
Eligibility (Joint Filers)	Combined income up to $300,000
Residency Requirement	Full-year New York State resident
Application Required?	No
Expected Payment Date	Fall 2025
Requirement	Must file 2025 NY State income tax return
Official Website	New York State Department of Taxation and Finance

Purpose

This $500 stimulus is designed to reach those most affected by inflation. With food, rent, gas, and utility prices still rising, the payment aims to ease the pressure on families, especially in urban and rural communities where household budgets are tight.

This isn’t just about individual relief. These checks will also help stimulate local businesses and small shops by encouraging residents to spend within their communities. According to the state’s estimates, more than 8.6 million people are expected to receive the benefit.

Eligibility

Single filers must have an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $150,000 or less
Married couples filing jointly must have a combined AGI of $300,000 or less

Your AGI is the number on your tax return after certain deductions, and it’s used to determine your eligibility.

Residency Requirements

You must be a full-time New York State resident during the entire 2025 tax year
If you moved to New York after January 1, 2025, you do not qualify
Residency is verified through your tax filing

Filing Requirements

No separate application is needed
Just file your 2025 state income taxes by the standard deadline (typically April 15, 2025)

Payment

You don’t have to fill out forms or register. The stimulus will be processed automatically based on your tax return.

When Will You Get It?

The payments are expected to start rolling out in Fall 2025, once tax season ends and returns are processed. Specific payment dates will be posted on the state’s website and shared through official channels.

How Will You Receive It?

If you chose direct deposit for your refund, the $500 will be sent to the same account
If you received a paper check, expect your stimulus to arrive by mail

Make sure your address and bank info are correct when you file—this is how the state will send your money.

Steps

Even though the process is automatic, here’s how to make sure your payment isn’t delayed or missed:

1. File Early and On Time

Don’t wait until the last minute. The earlier you file your return, the sooner you can get your stimulus.

2. Double-Check Your Info

Verify everything:

Correct Social Security Number
Your name matches your ID
Updated banking and mailing address
Proper filing status

3. Stay in the Loop

Check the New York Department of Taxation and Finance website regularly for updates and subscribe to email alerts for program changes or new details.

4. Avoid Scams

The government will never call, email, or text you asking for your Social Security number or bank info for this payment. If you get messages like that, it’s a scam.