Photo: BAY ISMOYO / AFP / Getty Images
New Yorkers are being warned about scams related to the state's inflation refund checks, which will be arriving in mailboxes over the next few weeks. Governor Kathy Hochul cautioned residents about fraudulent messages claiming that taxpayers need to submit payment information to receive their checks. These scams include text messages, voice messages, emails, and direct mail falsely stating that personal information is required for the checks to be issued.
Governor Hochul emphasized that New Yorkers do not need to take any action other than meeting eligibility requirements to receive their checks. According to Governor Hochul, "The Tax Department and the IRS do not call or text individuals for personal information." The state has already begun distributing more than 8.2 million checks, with deliveries continuing through October and November.
Eligible recipients do not need to apply or sign up for the refund. If a tax return was filed, income thresholds are met, and no one else claimed the taxpayer as a dependent, they will automatically receive a check.
Residents are advised to block and delete any suspicious messages and report them to the Tax Department or IRS. For more information on eligibility and how to report scams, New Yorkers can visit the New York State Tax Department's website or call the Consumer Helpline at 800-697-1220.