New York, NY – Over eight million residents across New York state are set to receive one-time stimulus payments of up to $400, part of a sweeping initiative included in the state budget that extends through 2026. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the measure, which also aims to return $2 billion to taxpayers, expand the child tax credit, and provide free school meals.

“The cost of living is still too high, so I promised to put more money in their pockets, and we did it,” Hochul said in a statement.

The payments, intended to ease financial burdens amid rising living costs, will vary depending on income levels:

• Married couples filing jointly may receive up to $400.
• Individuals will get between $200 and $400, depending on their tax situation.

Under the eligibility criteria:

• Individuals earning less than $75,000 annually will receive $200.
• Those earning between $75,000 and $150,000 will get $150.
• Couples earning under $150,000 will qualify for $400.
• Couples earning between $150,000 and $300,000 will receive $300.

While Governor Hochul has confirmed the stimulus plan, state officials have not yet specified when payments will be distributed. The state Budget Division has released eligibility requirements, but residents are advised to wait for further updates. The initiative aligns with broader tax cuts expected to impact 75% of state filers.

Georgia Residents Also to Receive Refunds

Meanwhile, in Georgia, a similar relief effort is underway. Governor Brian Kemp recently signed HB 112, authorizing one-time tax refunds of up to $500 using surplus funds. The payments aim to “give money back to workers,” Kemp said.

Georgia residents who filed their 2023-2024 tax returns by May 1—or October 15 with an extension—are eligible for the refunds:

• Single filers or married individuals filing separately will receive $250.
• Heads of household will receive $375.
• Married couples filing jointly will get $500.

Eligibility requires having a tax obligation for 2023. Partial residents or non-residents who fulfilled their tax responsibilities may also qualify. Refunds will be processed within 6-8 weeks of approval, either by direct deposit or mailed check, with no additional application steps required beyond tax filing.

Eligible Georgians can check their refund status through the Georgia Department of Revenue’s online portal at gtc.dor.ga.gov.

No Federal Stimulus at This Time

At the federal level, no new nationwide stimulus programs have been approved. Although discussions have emerged around a proposed “DOGE dividend” stimulus offering $5,000 payments to eligible Americans, no formal progress has been made. President Donald Trump and “DOGE Secretary” Elon Musk have expressed openness to the idea, but no legislative or executive action has been taken.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official state and federal channels for updates on any future economic relief initiatives.