Stimulus Checks Are Back in 2025: As of May 2025, there are no new federal stimulus checks approved for this year. However, several state-level programs and a few key IRS initiatives are actively providing financial relief to eligible individuals. Whether you’re a working family, a retiree, or someone who missed a previous benefit, this comprehensive guide will help you find out if you qualify and when you can expect payment. This article breaks down the latest updates, provides clear examples, and offers practical advice. With over a million people set to receive checks, understanding your eligibility has never been more important.
Stimulus Checks Are Back in 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Federal Stimulus (IRS) | Up to $1,400 for those who missed Recovery Rebate Credit (2021 tax year) |
| California | Middle Class Refund 2.0: $400-$1,050, payments April 30-May 20 |
| New York | $500 Emergency Relief for EITC or Child Credit claimants (May) |
| Colorado | TABOR rebates: $800 (single), $1,600 (joint), for 2023 filers |
| New Mexico | $500-$1,000 rebates, payments late June or July |
| Arizona | Up to $750 for low-income families, application deadline May 31 |
| Important Deadline | IRS Recovery Rebate Credit claim deadline: April 15, 2025 |
| Official Resource | IRS.gov |
While federal stimulus checks may be a thing of the past, millions of Americans are still eligible for state-level aid and IRS catch-up credits in 2025. By understanding where to look, who qualifies, and what deadlines matter, you can take full advantage of this financial help. Stay informed, protect yourself from scams, and make sure your tax records are up-to-date.
Understanding the Federal Stimulus: Recovery Rebate Credit
If you missed out on a federal stimulus check during the pandemic, there’s still hope. The IRS is automatically issuing payments of up to $1,400 to around 1 million taxpayers who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. The best part? You don’t need to file an amended return if you’re eligible. These payments began rolling out in January 2025 and were based on tax data from previous years.
“Eligible taxpayers should have received payments by late January 2025,” – AP News If you haven’t yet filed your 2021 taxes, you had until April 15, 2025, to file and claim this credit. Late filers may miss out unless Congress extends the deadline.
State-Level Stimulus Programs in 2025
While federal help is limited, several states have stepped up with targeted relief programs. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
California: Middle Class Refund 2.0
Residents who filed 2023 tax returns and meet income criteria are eligible for $400 to $1,050. These payments began April 30 and continue through May 20.
- Must be a California resident
- Income thresholds apply
- Official info
New York: Emergency Financial Relief
Families that claimed the Empire State Child Credit or the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) on their 2023 state taxes qualify for $500 checks.
- Automatically issued in May 2025
- No additional application needed
Colorado: TABOR Rebates
Under the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), refunds of $800 (single) and $1,600 (joint) are being sent to residents who filed 2023 state tax returns by April 15, 2024.
- Must be a full-time Colorado resident
- Payments sent via direct deposit, check, or debit card
- More info from Nasdaq
New Mexico: Income Tax Rebates
Eligible residents will receive $500 (single) or $1,000 (joint) rebates in late June or early July.
- Must have filed recent tax returns
- No additional steps required
Arizona: Cost of Living Assistance
Low-income households can apply for up to $750 through the Cost of Living Assistance Fund.
- Must apply by May 31, 2025
- Payments follow application approval
- Apply here
Payment Schedules You Should Know
| State | Payment Window |
| California | April 30 – May 20 |
| New York | Throughout May |
| Colorado | Ongoing via direct deposit or mail |
| New Mexico | Late June – Early July |
| Arizona | Post-May 31 (upon application approval) |
| Tip: Set up direct deposit with your state’s tax agency to receive payments faster. |
Avoiding Stimulus Check Scams
With money on the table, scammers are more active than ever. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Do not respond to texts, emails, or calls claiming to offer stimulus money.
- Check official sites like IRS.gov or your state’s Department of Revenue.
- Report scams to FTC.gov
FAQs on Stimulus Checks Are Back in 2025
Who qualifies for the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit?
If you didn’t receive your third stimulus check and didn’t claim it on your 2021 taxes, you may still qualify.
Do I need to apply for state stimulus payments?
Most states issue them automatically if you filed taxes. Arizona requires a separate application.
Can I still file for the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The April 15, 2025 deadline has passed unless extended.
How do I check my payment status?
Visit IRS Get My Payment or your state’s tax department.
Are stimulus payments taxable?
No, these payments are not considered taxable income.
