Federal stimulus checks may be a thing of the past, but that doesn’t mean money isn’t still being sent out. While new IRS payments are wrapping up and no new federal checks are in sight, several states are stepping in with their own relief—offering tax rebates, inflation credits, and even basic income programs. Confused by what’s real and what’s rumor? Let’s break it down.
IRS
The IRS is currently finalizing one of its last pandemic-era efforts: sending out unclaimed $1,400 stimulus payments tied to the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.
Roughly 1 million taxpayers either left this credit blank or entered “0” on their 2021 return, missing out. If you were eligible and didn’t claim it, the IRS might be sending it your way automatically using your 2023 tax info.
Important: You must file your 2021 return by April 15, 2025, to claim the money if you haven’t already. Eligibility includes:
- Income under $75,000 (single) or $150,000 (married)
- Must have a valid Social Security number
- Cannot be claimed as a dependent on another return
These payments are not new stimulus checks—just unclaimed credits being finalized.
Proposals
There’s buzz about new federal “stimulus” money—but much of it is just that: buzz.
Tariff Stimulus
The American Worker Rebate Act, proposed in 2025 by Sen. Josh Hawley and backed by former President Trump, would send $600 checks funded by tariff revenue. But it hasn’t passed Congress. It’s still just a bill.
DOGE Stimulus
There’s also chatter around a $5,000 DOGE stimulus check from Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. The reality? DOGE claims $130 billion in “savings,” which could hypothetically translate to $807 per taxpayer. But Congress hasn’t approved anything, and the numbers don’t add up. It’s unlikely to happen.
State
Many states are offering real, active relief programs in 2025. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available:
| State | Relief Program | Max Payment |
|---|---|---|
| California | Sacramento Family First / MCTR (ended) | $725/month (pilot) |
| Colorado | TABOR Refund | $177–$1,130 |
| Florida | Proposed Property Tax Rebate (pending) | $1,000 |
| Georgia | HB112 Tax Rebate | $250–$500 |
| Massachusetts | EV Rebates (no new 62F refund) | Up to $7,500 |
| Michigan | Working Families Tax Credit | Avg. $836 |
| New Jersey | ANCHOR / StayNJ / PAS-1 | Up to $6,500 |
| New York | STAR / E-STAR + proposed inflation checks | Up to $650 |
| Pennsylvania | Property Tax/Rent Rebate | Up to $1,000 |
| Virginia | 2025 Tax Rebate | $200–$400 |
Let’s look closer at a few:
California
The Sacramento Family First program offers $725 monthly to 200 families through November 2025. It’s a local pilot, not a statewide benefit.
Meanwhile, the Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR) ended last year. If you haven’t activated your MCTR debit card, do it now—millions remain unspent.
Colorado
TABOR refunds are ongoing in 2025 but are smaller than last year. Residents could get $177 to $1,130 based on income and filing status. Refunds are expected to shrink in future years due to changes in state revenue.
Georgia
Approved under House Bill 112, Georgians will again receive up to $500. This marks the third year of these tax rebates, funded by a strong $11 billion state surplus.
Michigan
Thanks to an expanded Earned Income Tax Credit, over 700,000 families have already received checks averaging $836. More payments are tied to upcoming 2025 tax filings.
Pennsylvania
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is expanded. If you’re 65+, a widow(er) over 50, or a disabled adult, you may qualify for up to $1,000, depending on income and housing type.
New York
Aside from the STAR and E-STAR property tax relief (worth up to $650), the state is proposing $300–$500 inflation checks for individuals and families under $150,000 and $300,000 respectively. Final approval depends on the April 2025 budget.
While federal stimulus checks are over for now, millions are still receiving meaningful relief—just not from Washington. Most help is coming through states, so check your eligibility locally. And don’t fall for viral rumors or social media scams promising huge checks with no explanation.
FAQs
Is the IRS sending new $1,400 checks?
Only for unclaimed 2021 credits—not new stimulus.
Are DOGE stimulus checks real?
No, the $5,000 idea is speculative and unfunded.
Which states are sending payments in 2025?
California, Georgia, Michigan, Virginia, and more.
Do I need to file to get a rebate?
Yes, most require you to file state or federal taxes.
Are tariff-based rebates approved?
No, they’re proposed but not passed into law.
