BUFFALO — New York families will be getting more money this year, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday.
Hochul spoke in Buffalo about a $1,800 baby bonus as part of her “plan to transform New York into the best, most affordable place to start and raise a family.“ The New York State BABY (Birth Allowance for Beginning Year) Benefit is described as a one-time benefit for low-income parents who receive public assistance when they have a new baby.
“The BABY Benefit will significantly boost household income for thousands of New York’s most under-resourced families during a crucial period in their lives,” Hochul’s office said. “This boost will help alleviate birth-related expenses and ease the financial burden associated with caring for a new baby.”
Hochul first proposed the “birth allowance” in January as monthly payments during a woman’s pregnancy with a larger sum when their child is born. Instead, new parents will receive a one-time $1,800 payment if they reside in New York state, are enrolled in public assistance, and welcome a child during the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
New York’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance will provide more details on how families who qualify can access the BABY Benefit, according to FingerLakes1.com.
The baby bonus is in addition to New York’s expanded child tax credit, which will give up to $1,000 per child under age 4 and up to $500 per child for ages 4-16. The previous maximum was $330 for all children up to age 16.
According to Hochul’s office, the average tax credit will nearly double from $472 to $943 and help cut child poverty statewide by more than 8 percent. Changes to income provisions will also allow 187,000 more people to qualify.
Both are part of the state’s 2026 budget, which includes free school breakfast and lunch for all students, plus “inflation refund” checks of up to $400 this fall.
“I fought for New Yorkers and their families to put thousands of dollars back in their pockets and I am proud to say we got it done,” Hochul said.