If you’ve been holding out hope for extra cash in 2025, here’s some good news: $500 stimulus payments are being sent out this year—but they’re not coming from Washington, D.C. Instead, several states are quietly distributing tax rebates, surplus refunds, and cost-of-living payments to eligible residents.
But don’t be fooled—you won’t automatically get this money unless you’ve met the right criteria, and the eligibility rules and deadlines vary by state. Whether you filed your taxes early or care for dependents, your state could owe you money.
Where the $500 Payments Are Coming From in 2025
Georgia
Residents are receiving up to $500 in surplus tax refunds:
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$250 for single filers
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$375 for heads of household
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$500 for married couples filing jointly
To qualify, you must have filed both your 2023 and 2024 tax returns by May 1. Direct deposits began June 16, with mailed checks arriving in the following weeks.
New Mexico
Taxpayers are getting $500 for single filers and $1,000 for joint filers as part of a tax rebate program.
You must file your 2024 tax return to qualify. Payments are expected in late June or early July.
New York
An “Inflation Relief” payment will offer $300 to $500 depending on your income and filing status.
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Individuals earning under $75,000 could receive up to $300
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Joint filers earning under $150,000 may get up to $500
This check is scheduled for October 2025, and no new application is required if your taxes are already filed.
Colorado
TABOR (Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights) refunds are ongoing, with up to $800 for individuals and $1,600 for joint filers.
Payments are based on income and residency status, and distribution continues through summer.
California
Some Californians may see checks from Golden State Stimulus Round 3, depending on previous eligibility.
Additionally, utility credits worth $39 to $59 are being applied to household energy bills automatically.
Arizona
The state is issuing family rebates worth $250 per child under 17 and $100 per dependent over 17, up to a total of $750 per household.
This relief is aimed at families with tax dependents and began rolling out earlier this year.
Pennsylvania
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program now offers up to $1,000 for seniors and people with disabilities.
Applications must be submitted by June 30, 2025, and income limits have been expanded.
Who’s Eligible for the $500 Payment?
The exact requirements vary by state, but here are the general factors that could make you eligible:
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You filed your state taxes on time (often both 2023 and 2024)
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You meet state-specific income limits
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You’re a resident of the state offering the payment
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You have qualifying dependents (in some programs like Arizona)
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You’re a senior or disabled individual (in programs like Pennsylvania’s)
The $500 amount is a common figure for one-time tax relief, but total payments can be higher if you qualify for more than one program.
Why It’s Easy to Miss Out
Unlike federal stimulus payments, these state rebates often require that you meet filing deadlines, have accurate direct deposit info, or actively apply. Many people miss out simply because they didn’t know a program existed or failed to file in time.
With so many programs happening at the state—not federal—level, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your local government’s tax and revenue department.
What You Should Do Now
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Visit your state’s Department of Revenue website to verify current rebates or tax refund programs.
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Make sure your 2023 and 2024 taxes are filed and that your mailing address or direct deposit info is accurate.
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Apply before any posted deadlines, especially in Pennsylvania and New York.
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Ignore federal check rumors—everything happening now is through your state.
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Check eligibility for dependents or seniors programs that could offer even more than $500.
Bottom Line
There’s no federal $500 stimulus check for everyone—but many Americans will see state-issued payments of $500 or more in 2025 if they meet specific requirements. Whether it’s Georgia’s surplus refund or New Mexico’s tax rebate, the key is knowing where you live and whether you’ve filed correctly.
