Governor Kathy Hochul is warning New Yorkers about scams circulating through text messages, phone calls, emails, and direct mail that falsely claim residents must provide personal information to receive the state’s inflation refund checks.
Officials say scammers are trying to trick taxpayers into sharing bank details by suggesting the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance or the IRS needs the information to deposit funds. Both agencies say they will never call, text, or email taxpayers to request personal financial details.
“New Yorkers do not have to do anything to receive an inflation refund check outside of meeting the eligibility requirements,” Hochul said. “The Tax Department and the IRS do not call or text individuals for personal information. My administration urges New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report these scams.”
More than 8.2 million households across the state are expected to receive the checks, with deliveries continuing through October and November. Eligible residents do not need to apply or sign up — those who filed a tax return, meet income thresholds, and were not claimed as a dependent will automatically receive a payment.
Anyone who receives a suspicious message should block the sender, delete it, and report it to the state Tax Department or the IRS. Officials stress the Tax Department does not use text messages, emails, or social media to request personal tax information.
For more information on eligibility and the refund program, visit ny.gov/inflationrefund.
