New York state to send energy bill relief checks to millions
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New York state will soon send up to $200 to millions of residents to help them pay energy bills.
The state announced the initiative, called the “Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate” or POWER program, with a $1 billion budget to lessen the financial strain on households facing rising costs. Governor Kathy Hochul stated the program aims to help residents cover heating costs in winter and air conditioning in summer.
The amount of the check depends on tax filing status and reported income. Married couples filing jointly with income below $150,000 will receive $200, while those earning between $150,000 and $300,000 will get $150. Individuals who filed individually and reported income under $150,000 will receive $100. To qualify, residents must have filed their 2024 state income tax return on time, been full-year New York residents, and meet the program’s income limits.
The state will automatically mail checks to eligible people starting next week, and the distribution will continue through December. The program will reach an estimated 8.2 million people without requiring them to apply.
