New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced a new financial aid program for low-income families called the New York State BABY Benefit. Starting in the 2025-2026 tax year, qualifying parents will receive a one-time payment of $1,800 to help cover the costs of having a child. This program is part of a wider plan to make New York more affordable and supportive for families.
What Is the New York State BABY Benefit?
The BABY Benefit is a $1,800 lump sum payment given to parents who meet certain requirements:
Live in New York State
Are enrolled in a public assistance program
Have or adopt a child during the 2025-2026 tax year
The payment will help families with the immediate expenses of childbirth and early baby care. Although the exact process to apply or receive the benefit is not yet announced, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance will provide more details soon.
Governor Hochul said the BABY Benefit will “significantly increase incomes of New York’s most vulnerable households” during this important time.
Other Family Support Measures in the 2026 Budget
The BABY Benefit is part of a larger family assistance package that includes:
Expanding the Child Tax Credit to up to $1,000 per child under 4 years old
Up to $500 credit for children aged 4 to 16
Increasing the average credit from $472 to $943
Expanding eligibility to include an additional 187,000 taxpayers
This expansion is expected to reduce child poverty in New York by over 8%.
Additionally, the state will provide free school breakfast and lunch to all students, saving families about $1,600 per child each year. Inflation rebate checks up to $400 will also be sent to taxpayers who filed returns in 2023.
Governor Hochul’s Commitment to Families
Governor Hochul expressed her dedication to helping families thrive, saying, “Your family is my fight.” To support this, the state plans to invest $100 million in building and renovating child care centers and $10 million for home care providers.
These combined efforts aim to make New York a more affordable and family-friendly state, especially for those who need help the most from the start.
FAQs
What is the New York State BABY Benefit?
The BABY Benefit is a $1,800 lump sum payment given to eligible low-income families in New York when they have or adopt a child during the 2025-2026 tax year.
Who is eligible for the BABY Benefit?
Eligibility requires residency in New York State, enrollment in a public assistance program, and having or adopting a child during the 2025-2026 tax year.
When will the BABY Benefit payments be distributed?
The exact distribution timeline has not yet been announced, but more details will come soon from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
What other family support measures are included in New York’s 2026 budget?
The budget expands the child tax credit, offers free school meals to all students, provides inflation rebate checks, and invests in childcare centers and home care providers.
How much can the expanded child tax credit be?
The child tax credit can be up to $1,000 for children under 4 years old and up to $500 for children aged 4 to 16, with increased eligibility for more taxpayers.
How will the BABY Benefit help reduce child poverty?
Expanding family support through the BABY Benefit and tax credits is expected to reduce child poverty in New York by over 8%.
