Governor Hochul Warns of Inflation Refund Check Scams

Governor Kathy Hochul is warning New Yorkers about scammers sending text messages, voice messages, emails, and mail with false information about New York State’s inflation refund checks. These messages falsely claim you need to submit accurate payment information to get your check, supposedly so the state can deposit money into your bank account.

The New York State Tax Department and the IRS will never call or text asking for your personal information. Here’s an example of the scam text message so you know what to watch for.

Governor Hochul said, “New Yorkers don’t have to do anything to receive an inflation refund check other than meet the eligibility requirements. With scams targeting the state’s inflation refund initiative, let me be clear: 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 to the Tax Department to protect yourself from being a victim.”

If you filed a tax return, earn less than the income limits, and no one claimed you as a dependent, you’ll automatically receive a check.You don’t need to apply or sign up for anything. Governor Hochul recently announced that the state has started sending out these checks to over 8 million New Yorkers.