Good news if you live in New York! The state is mailing extra refund checks in 2025 averaging $400–$525 to over 1 million taxpayers. This isn’t a new stimulus — it’s an additional property tax relief refund tied to the Homeowner Tax Rebate Credit (HTRC) program, expanded for 2025.
A Quick History of New York Refund & Stimulus Programs
New York has sent extra checks before:
- 2022–2023: Homeowner Tax Rebate Credit (up to $1,050)
- 2023–4: Inflation Refund checks (avg. $270)
- 2024: Family Tax Credit boost
Now in 2025, NY is continuing the tradition with another round of property-tax-based refunds.
Why This Refund Is Still Very Relevant in 2025
With rent and groceries still high, an extra $400–$500 showing up unexpectedly feels like winning a small lottery. Thousands of middle-class families use these checks for holidays, debt, or savings.
Who Is Eligible? (You Probably Qualify If…)
- You owned a home in New York in 2024
- Your 2024 income was $250,000 or less (single) / $500,000 or less (married)
- You received the basic STAR credit or exemption
- You filed your 2024 NY state tax return
Renters: sorry, this round is only for homeowners with STAR.
2025 New York Refund Amounts & Schedule
| Income Bracket (2024 AGI) | Basic STAR Recipients | Enhanced STAR Recipients |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ $150,000 | $425 | $525 |
| $150,001 – $200,000 | $400 | $500 |
| $200,001 – $250,000 | $375 | $450 |
Payments start: Mid-January 2025 (paper checks)
Direct deposit: Late January – February 2025
How to Track Your 2025 NY Refund Check
- Visit tax.ny.gov and click “Check your refund status”
- Have your SSN and 2024 filing status ready
- Or call 518-457-5149 (be patient — lines are long in January!)
Fun Facts & Stats
- 2023 Inflation Refund: 1.75 million checks mailed
- Average 2025 check: ~$440
- Total program cost 2025: over $550 million
Expert Tips to Guarantee You Get Paid
- File your 2024 taxes early (even if you owe nothing)
- Update your address with both IRS and NY DTF
- Sign up for direct deposit on your NY tax account — checks arrive 2–4 weeks faster
- If you moved, file Form IT-360.1 (Change of Address)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this a new stimulus check?
A: No, it’s a property tax relief refund, but it feels exactly like stimulus!
Q: I rent — do I get anything?
A: Not this program, but watch for possible future renter credits.
Q: When should my check arrive?
A: Most by President’s Day 2025 if you had direct deposit set up.
Q: I didn’t get a 2024 STAR check — am I out?
A: Probably yes — this is only for people already in the STAR system.
Final Thoughts – Grab Your Free Money!
The $400+ New York refund in 2025 is basically free money for hundreds of thousands of homeowners. Double-check your eligibility, file those 2024 taxes soon, and keep an eye on your mailbox or bank account this winter.