New Yorkers Are Getting Electricity Bill Rebate Checks This Month — Here’s What to Know

NEW YORK — New Yorkers struggling with skyrocketing electricity bills are finally getting a break. Starting this month, approximately 8.2 million residents will begin receiving one-time rebate checks through the state's new Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate (POWER) program .

The payments, which range from $100 to $200, were included in New York's 2026-27 state budget and are designed to provide direct financial relief as utility costs continue to climb across the state .

Why Is New York Sending These Checks?

New Yorkers are facing some of the highest electricity costs in the nation. Recent federal data shows that New York's residential electricity prices have reached 29.93 cents per kilowatt-hour — the third highest in the country, behind only Hawaii and California . That's a staggering 62% above the national average, nearly double what Floridians pay, and more than 80% higher than in Texas .

The situation is only getting worse. Con Edison has announced plans to raise electricity rates by 10.4% and natural gas rates by 15.8% , which could add approximately $600 per year to the average New Yorker's bill by 2028 .

The POWER checks are meant to "ensure New Yorkers get the relief they need" as utility rates continue to burden households across the state .

How Much Will You Get?

The amount depends on your filing status and income as reported on your 2024 New York state tax return :

Single filers, heads of household, and married individuals filing separately may qualify for the $100 payment depending on their income and filing status .

Who Qualifies?

To receive a POWER rebate check, you must meet all of the following criteria :

• Filed a timely New York State resident income tax return for tax year 2024

Do You Need to Apply?

No. The checks will be issued automatically to eligible New Yorkers based on information already on file with the state tax department . No separate application is required.

If you qualify, a physical check will simply arrive in your mailbox.

When Will the Checks Arrive?

The state began mailing payments in September 2026, with distribution expected to continue through December — just as winter heating costs begin to bite .

Unlike a credit applied directly to your utility bill, this is an actual check you can deposit or cash .

Eligibility Is Not Based on Your Utility

It's important to note that the POWER rebate is not tied to which utility company you use. You do not need to be an RG&E, NYSEG, or Con Edison customer to qualify . The payment is based entirely on your tax filing status and income — not on how much you pay for electricity.

Beyond the One-Time Check

While the POWER program provides immediate relief, Governor Kathy Hochul has also reminded New Yorkers to enroll in the state's Energy Affordability Program (EAP) and Enhanced Energy Affordability Program (EEAP) , which provide monthly discounts on electric and gas bills to income-eligible households . These programs already provide more than $500 million in annual discounts to approximately one million households, with an estimated 1.5 million more eligible but not yet enrolled .

"This Budget not only means enhanced protections and direct financial relief for ratepayers today, it prepares us for an even stronger tomorrow thanks to our historic investments in sustainability, grid reliability, infrastructure and resiliency," Governor Hochul said in a statement .

The bottom line: If you were a full-time New York resident in 2024 and filed your state taxes on time, keep an eye on your mailbox. Your POWER check — worth up to $200 — could be on its way.