New Yorkers are finally seeing relief from rising costs through the state-issued inflation refund checks, but there’s a catch—some banks aren’t accepting them through mobile deposit. This surprise is leaving many scratching their heads, especially those who rely on digital banking.
If you’re one of the 8 million residents eligible for up to $400, here’s everything you need to know to actually get your hands on your money without the headaches.
Table of Contents
Payments
The state of New York started sending out paper checks in late September as part of a $2 billion initiative to help offset high living costs. These “inflation refund checks” are being mailed automatically by the Department of Taxation and Finance. There’s no application process, no login forms, and no one should be asking you for your banking information to release the money.
Checks are expected to keep arriving through October and November, with eligible residents getting anywhere from $150 to $400 depending on their 2023 income and tax filing status.
So, how do you qualify?
You must have filed Form IT-201 for the 2023 tax year and not been listed as someone else’s dependent. That’s it.
Deposits
Now comes the tricky part—getting the check into your bank account.
Some banks are welcoming these state-issued checks without any drama. For example, KeyBank allows mobile deposits for these refunds. All you have to do is open the app, snap a photo of the check, and you’re good to go.
But not all banks are playing ball. Chase Bank has taken a more cautious route, refusing to process these checks via mobile deposit or even through their in-person tellers. That’s right—you’ll need to use a Chase ATM or go into a branch to deposit the check. According to a Chase spokesperson, this is a preventative step to reduce fraud, since state-issued refund programs have historically been targets for scammers.
If your bank doesn’t accept mobile deposits for this check, don’t panic. You can always deposit the check the old-fashioned way—by visiting an ATM or walking into your local branch. Just check your bank’s policy beforehand to avoid wasted trips.
Scams
Speaking of scams, state officials are raising the alarm. As soon as the checks started rolling out, scammers weren’t far behind. Fraudsters are pretending to be representatives from the Department of Taxation and Finance, contacting people via phone calls, texts, and emails.
Here’s the golden rule: the state will never call or message you asking for personal info or banking details to issue a refund check. If you get a suspicious message, report it on the Department’s official website right away.
Susan Pedo, Director of Public Information for the department, emphasized that checks are being mailed directly and no follow-up is required. Any outreach that asks you to verify or confirm something is likely a scam.
Replacements
Lost your check? Or maybe it never arrived in the first place?
Don’t worry—you’re not out of luck. You can request a replacement by filling out two specific forms:
- DTF-32 (Notification to Owner of an Uncashed Check)
- DTF-36 (Application for an Uncashed Check)
Both are available on the Department of Taxation and Finance website. You can also request them by calling 518-457-5181.
Make sure you have all your relevant tax information handy before making the call or filling out the forms online.
Frustration
This inflation refund program is meant to help ease financial pressure, but for many, it’s turning into a confusing mess. Between inconsistent bank policies and fears over scams, recipients are left wondering if the effort is worth it.
The good news? These checks are legit, and the state is actively working to get them to you. The bad news? Not all banks are cooperating equally, and it may take a bit more effort to get your funds deposited.
If you’re unsure how your bank handles these checks, call them directly or check their website before attempting a mobile deposit. It could save you a frustrating trip or a bounced deposit.
The state is doing its part by mailing out the payments automatically and warning people about scams, but the rest is up to you: stay alert, know your bank’s policy, and act fast if something seems off.
FAQs
Why won’t my bank accept the refund check?
Some banks like Chase restrict mobile or teller deposits for security reasons.
Can I cash the check without a bank account?
Yes, at a check-cashing service or by opening a basic bank account.
What if my check gets lost?
Request a replacement by submitting forms DTF-32 and DTF-36.
Is this refund a scam?
No, it’s a legitimate state-issued payment mailed automatically.
When will all checks be mailed?
Between late September and through November 2025.
