As of June 2025, there has been no official confirmation from Congress or the IRS of a fourth round of federal stimulus checks. Despite widespread online speculation and rumors about $2,000 payments, no bill has been passed or signed into law authorizing additional federal Economic Impact Payments.
The deadline to claim any missed payments from the third and final round of federal stimulus (the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit from 2021) has also passed as of April 15, 2025. This effectively closes the chapter on pandemic-era federal stimulus payments.
Why No Fourth Federal Stimulus Check?
Several factors have contributed to the absence of a fourth federal stimulus check:
- Economic Recovery: The U.S. economy has shown signs of recovery from pandemic-era disruptions
- Congressional Priorities: Lawmakers have shifted focus to targeted relief rather than broad payments
- Inflation Concerns: Concerns about adding to inflationary pressure through direct cash payments
- Fiscal Responsibility: Growing attention to federal deficit and debt levels
DOGE Dividend Proposal Status
There has been mention of a “DOGE Dividend,” a proposal by President Donald Trump involving taking savings found by a proposed “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) and returning a portion to taxpayers. However, this remains a proposal without any formal approval or legislative action.
Previous Federal Stimulus Payments Overview
| Stimulus Round | Payment Amount | Dependent Payment | Legislative Authority | Distribution Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First (CARES Act) | Up to $1,200 | $500 per child | March 2020 | April-December 2020 |
| Second (COVID Relief Act) | Up to $600 | $600 per child | December 2020 | January-February 2021 |
| Third (American Rescue Plan) | Up to $1,400 | $1,400 per dependent | March 2021 | March-December 2021 |
| Fourth | No Authorization | N/A | No Legislation | Not Applicable |
Unclaimed 2021 Stimulus Payments – Final Opportunity Closed
The IRS announced special payments going to 1 million taxpayers who did not claim 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. These automatic payments were sent in December 2024 and January 2025 to eligible taxpayers who:
- Filed a 2021 tax return but left the Recovery Rebate Credit field blank
- Entered $0 for the credit when they were actually eligible
- Had valid information on file with the IRS
2021 Recovery Rebate Credit Final Deadline
Taxpayers who haven’t filed 2021 tax returns faced an April 15, 2025, deadline to file their returns to claim the credit. This deadline has now passed, making it the final opportunity to claim missing 2021 stimulus payments.
State-Level Stimulus and Relief Programs in 2025
While federal stimulus checks are not available, several states have implemented their own relief programs:
Active State Programs
| State | Program Name | Payment Amount | Eligibility | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | Inflation Refund | $300-$500 | Income up to $150K-$300K | Active |
| California | Golden State Stimulus | Up to $725 | Income-based | Ongoing |
| Colorado | TABOR Refunds | $800-$1,600 | State tax filers | Active |
| Pennsylvania | Property Tax Rebate | Up to $1,000 | Senior/disabled residents | Available |
| Georgia | Surplus Tax Refund | Varies | 2023-2024 filers | Processing |
New York Inflation Refund Details
New York State residents who are single taxpayers and make up to $150,000 per year could receive a payment of $300, while joint tax filers making up to $300,000 per year would receive a payment of $500. The state is sending inflation refund checks to over 8 million residents as part of the fiscal year 2026 budget.
Colorado TABOR Refunds
Single taxpayers in Colorado will be eligible for payments up to $800, while married couples filing jointly can receive up to $1,600. Requirements include:
- Filing 2023 Colorado tax return by April 15, 2024
- Colorado residency for at least 183 days during fiscal year
- No outstanding tax debts or criminal convictions
California Relief Programs
California has confirmed a new round of stimulus checks up to $725 for eligible households, depending on income and family size. Priority is given to:
- Legal California residents who filed recent state tax returns
- Individuals who did not receive aid in previous Golden State Stimulus rounds
- Households meeting specific income requirements
Warning About Stimulus Check Scams
Where there is hope for money, scams are sure to follow. The IRS has issued warnings about fraudulent stimulus check claims:
Red Flags to Avoid
- Fake Applications: No application is required for legitimate stimulus payments
- Advance Fees: Legitimate payments never require upfront fees
- Phishing Attempts: Government agencies don’t request personal information via email or text
- Unofficial Websites: Only trust official .gov websites
Official Sources for Verification
- Federal Information: IRS.gov
- Social Security: SSA.gov
- Treasury Department: Treasury.gov
- State Programs: Your state’s official .gov website
Economic Impact Payment Statistics
| Program Metric | Total Impact |
|---|---|
| Total Payments Issued | 476+ million payments |
| Total Amount Distributed | $814+ billion |
| Coverage Period | March 2020 – December 2021 |
| Average Payment (Third Round) | $1,400 per person |
| Households Reached | 85%+ of American households |
What to Do Instead of Waiting for Fourth Stimulus
Available Federal Programs
- Enhanced Child Tax Credit: Available through tax filing
- Earned Income Tax Credit: Expanded for 2024-2025
- SNAP Benefits: Food assistance programs
- Energy Assistance: LIHEAP heating/cooling aid
- Housing Assistance: Rental and mortgage relief programs
State and Local Resources
- Check your state’s Department of Revenue website
- Contact local social services agencies
- Review utility assistance programs
- Explore emergency relief funds
Future Stimulus Possibilities
While no fourth federal stimulus check is currently authorized, potential scenarios could include:
Conditional Triggers
- Economic Emergency: Significant recession or crisis
- Targeted Relief: Assistance for specific demographics
- Legislative Changes: New congressional priorities
- Election Year Politics: Potential campaign promises
Alternative Relief Measures
Policymakers may consider alternatives to direct stimulus checks:
- Tax Credit Expansions: Enhancing existing credits
- Program Enhancements: Boosting SNAP, housing assistance
- Infrastructure Investments: Job creation through public works
- Healthcare Support: Medical cost assistance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a fourth stimulus check confirmed for 2025?
No, there is no confirmed fourth federal stimulus check. Congress has not passed any legislation authorizing additional Economic Impact Payments.
Can I still claim missed 2021 stimulus payments?
No, the deadline to claim 2021 Recovery Rebate Credits passed on April 15, 2025. No extensions are available.
Which states are sending stimulus checks in 2025?
New York, California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Georgia have active state-level relief programs with varying eligibility requirements and payment amounts.
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