Governor Hochul Warns New Yorkers of Scams Targeting 8.2 Million Inflation Refund Checks

Governor Kathy Hochul has issued multiple warnings to New Yorkers about scammers exploiting the state's inflation refund program by sending fraudulent text messages, emails, phone calls, and direct mail falsely claiming that taxpayers must provide personal or banking information to receive their inflation refund checks. These scams falsely assert that the New York State Tax Department or IRS require such information to deposit money, but officials emphasize that eligible taxpayers do not need to apply, sign up, or submit any payment details to receive their checks, which are being automatically mailed to over 8.2 million households through October and November. New Yorkers are advised to block, delete, and report any suspicious communications to the Tax Department or IRS, as these agencies do not request personal information via phone, email, text, or social media. The state’s inflation refund checks, up to $400 depending on income and filing status, are aimed at assisting residents struggling with inflation without any age restrictions or application requirements. Governor Hochul and state officials urge vigilance against scammers who use robocalls, voicemail messages, and fake letters to impersonate tax officials and steal private information. Additional resources and eligibility details are available at ny.gov/inflationrefund and through the New York Division of Consumer Protection’s identity theft programs.