We’ve had quite the fair share of heat waves across our favorite city these past few months, to say the least. And if you’ve been nervously opening your Con Edison bill after yet another summer of blasting the AC, some much-needed relief may officially be on the way.
According to a press release, New York State is kicking off a massive $1 billion utility relief program this month, sending direct rebate checks to millions of residents across the state to help offset those painfully high energy costs.
Part of the newly enacted Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate (POWER) program, these one-time payments are designed to put money back into the pockets of middle-class households and low-income families alike—because after a summer like this one, we could all use a little help with the electric bill.
How much is the average energy bill in the summer in NYC?
If your recent utility bills made you do a double-take, you’re certainly not alone.
According to energy cost analytics from EnergySage, the average monthly electric bill in New York City sits at roughly $352—well above the national average.
Data from Con Edison shows that summer bills consistently jump by 30% to 50% compared to spring and fall, largely driven by air conditioning demand and peak summer delivery rates.
Because New Yorkers pay some of the highest residential electricity rates in the nation—averaging over 31 cents per kWh during peak months—even a modest window AC unit can tack on an extra $50 to $150 every month.
Shutterstock / James Andrews1
How much money will you get?
According to guidelines released by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, the POWER program provides three main tiers of one-time payout amounts based on your 2024 tax filing status and reported gross income:
Joint Filers (Income under $150,000): $200 check
Joint Filers (Income between $150,000 and $300,000): $150 check
Single Filers (Income under $150,000): $100 check
Do you need to apply?
No application is required.
State tax officials confirm that these rebate checks are being issued automatically.
The state is pulling eligibility data directly from resident income tax filings, so you don’t need to fill out forms, submit pay stubs, or upload utility account numbers to claim your money.
Who qualifies for a POWER rebate check?
According to state program requirements, to qualify for a check, you must:
Have filed a timely 2024 New York State resident income tax return.
Have been a full-time New York State resident during the 2024 tax year.
Meet the income requirements listed above.
Not have been claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
When will the rebate checks arrive?
Governor Kathy Hochul’s office announced that the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance will begin rolling out the physical rebate checks in September 2026.
State officials note that distributions will continue in scheduled batches through December 2026.
If you have moved or changed your address since submitting your 2024 tax return, state tax authorities advise updating your primary mailing address with both the U.S. Postal Service and the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance to avoid delivery delays.
🌐 For more information, see the program’s official press release.