New Yorkers are starting to receive the state’s new inflation refund checks, but some scammers are already trying to take advantage of the program. The money will come automatically, and New Yorkers do not need to do anything besides remain alert.

Governor Kathy Hochul cautioned residents to ignore emails, texts, phone calls, or mail claiming that people must provide personal or banking information to claim their money. No one needs to apply, sign up, or share information to get a check. Eligibility alone determines who receives one.

“The Tax Department and the IRS do not call or text individuals for personal information,” Hochul said in a statement Sunday. “My administration urges New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report these scams to the Tax Department to protect yourself from being a victim.”

The checks began going out in batches last week and will continue to arrive over the next two months. They are worth between $150 and $400, depending on income and filing status. Any taxpayer who filed a 2023 return with an adjusted gross income under $300,000 for joint filers, or under $150,000 for single filers, is eligible.

Officials urge anyone who receives a suspicious message to block the sender, delete the message, and report it to the Tax Department or IRS. Threatening phone calls should be ended immediately, and residents are warned never to meet with anyone claiming to be a tax representative in person.

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