Beginning this week, millions of New Yorkers will start receiving one-time energy rebate checks worth up to $200 under the state's Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate, or POWER, program. The checks are being mailed automatically to eligible residents as part of a $1 billion initiative approved in New York's 2026-27 budget. Mailing began Sept. 21 and will continue through December for an estimated 8.2 million households statewide.
State officials say eligible residents do not need to apply. Payments are being issued automatically based on information from 2024 New York state income tax returns and could arrive at different times over the coming weeks and months.
The POWER program is intended to help offset higher energy and utility costs. State
officials estimate roughly 8.2 million New Yorkers will receive a rebate check.
How much will you get?
The amount depends on your income and filing status from your 2024 New York state income tax return.
Eligible residents may receive:
- $200 for married couples filing jointly with income below $150,000.
- $150 for married couples filing jointly with income between $150,000 and $300,000.
- $100 for qualifying single filers with income of $150,000 or less.
Single filers, heads of household and certain other taxpayers also may qualify for a $100 payment, depending on income and filing status.
Who qualifies for a POWER rebate check?
According to state guidance, recipients must:
- Have filed a timely New York resident income tax return for 2024.
- Have been a full-time New York resident in 2024.
- Meet the program's income requirements.
- Not have been claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer's return.
Eligibility is based on tax information already on file with the state.
Do you need to apply?
No. Eligible New Yorkers will receive their rebate checks automatically. No separate application is required.
Why is New York sending the checks?
State officials say the rebates are intended to provide relief for households facing higher energy and utility costs. The rebate program was approved as part of the 2026-27 state budget and provides direct payments to qualifying taxpayers.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: NY energy rebate checks start going out today. Are you getting up to $200?
