The New York Inflation Refund program, created to help millions of New Yorkers cope with rising costs, is distributing one‑time checks of $150–$400 depending on income and filing status.
However, an unexpected snag has emerged: some banks are rejecting mobile deposits of these paper refund checks, creating frustration and confusion for recipients who expected a smooth deposit via their smartphone banking apps.
Eligibility & Payment Details: What You Should Know
Here’s a table summarising the key eligibility and payment figures for the program:
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who is eligible? | Residents of New York State who filed Form IT‑201 for 2023, met income thresholds, and weren’t claimed as a dependent. |
| Check amounts | • Single filers ≤ $75 k: $200 • Single filers >$75 k to ≤$150 k: $150 • Married joint ≤$150 k: $400 • Married joint >$150 k to ≤$300 k: $300 |
| Distribution period | Checks started mailing end of September 2025 and will continue through October and November. |
| Mobile deposit issue | Some banks (notably Chase Bank) are refusing mobile deposits of these checks, requiring branch or ATM deposit instead. |
| Scam warning | State officials warn of fraud attempts targeting refund recipients—no additional info required from you to receive the check. |
Why Are Some Banks Rejecting Mobile Deposits?
The heart of the issue lies in bank policy and fraud concerns. For example, Chase Bank has stated that the state‑issued refund checks will not be eligible for mobile deposit in its app. Recipients must deposit via a branch or ATM.
On the flip side, some institutions like KeyBank have confirmed they accept the checks via mobile deposit without issue. The inconsistent policies across banks are leading to confusion for many recipients.
Also, the state has emphasised that recipients do not need to submit any additional information to receive the check and that scammers are targeting this relief program.
What You Should Do Now
Here are action steps to ensure you receive and successfully deposit your refund check:
- Check your eligibility – Confirm you filed your 2023 New York resident return (IT‑201), meet the income limits and weren’t claimed as a dependent.
- Watch your mail – Expect a paper check in late September through November 2025. The mailing address is based on your last filed return.
- Verify your bank’s policy – Before you attempt mobile deposit, contact your bank to confirm whether they accept this specific refund check via mobile. If not, plan a branch or ATM visit.
- Protect against scams – Be wary of texts, calls or emails asking for banking or personal info in connection with the refund. The Tax Department says you don’t need to provide any extra info.
- Deposit promptly – Whether mobile or in person, deposit the check as soon as possible to avoid delays. If your bank rejects mobile deposit, act quickly to avoid hold‑times.
The New York inflation refund initiative offers much‑needed relief for millions of residents through checks of up to $400, but depositing those checks may not be as simple as snapping a photo.
Because some banks are rejecting mobile deposits, you may need to head to a branch or ATM to deposit the check successfully. Double‑check your bank’s policy, monitor your mail, and be alert for scams.
FAQs
Is this refund payment the same for everyone in New York?
No. The amount varies based on filing status and income. Single filers may receive $150 or $200, married couples $300 or $400 depending on 2023 income.
Why won’t my bank accept the mobile deposit of this check?
Bank policies differ. Some banks treat the state‑issued refund checks differently and reject mobile deposit for security/fraud reasons—requiring branch or ATM deposit instead.
Do I need to apply or give more information to get the refund check?
No. If you meet the eligibility requirements (filed 2023 IT‑201, income threshold, not claimed as a dependent), you will automatically receive the check.