Gov. Hochul announces $1,800 baby bonus for eligible families

Niki Kelly column: Birth rate dip calls for comprehensive action — not Band-Aids

Federal lawmakers are considering funding $1,000 savings accounts for children and a $5,000 baby bonus to combat falling birth rates. But I think it’s a much larger discussion than one-time payments that won’t even cover the cost of diapers.

Gov. Hochul announces $1,800 baby bonus for eligible families

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a $1,800 baby bonus for eligible families as a part of the 2026 budget during a press conference in Buffalo Tuesday. Low-income families with new babies who are on public assistance are eligible. In addition, Hochul said families with kids under 4 years old will receive $1,000 and an additional $500 for each child up to the age of 16 as an annual tax credit. The state will also be covering ever…

Governor Hochul Unveils $1,800 Baby Bonus and Expanded Family Benefits in 2026 Budget

BUFFALO, N.Y. — In a bold move aimed at easing the financial burden on working families, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a sweeping package of benefits Tuesday, including a $1,800 baby bonus for low-income families, as part of the state’s 2026 Executive Budget. Speaking at a press conference in Buffalo, Governor Hochul framed the initiative as a cornerstone of her broader economic justice agenda. “Your family is my fight,” Hochul declar…