If you’ve been holding out hope for another round of stimulus checks in 2025, here’s the good news: thousands of Americans are still receiving payments — but not in the way most people expect. From generous state-run programs in California and Colorado to surprise tax refunds from the IRS, financial relief is trickling in across the country. However, the federal government has yet to approve a nationwide stimulus check for 2025, and millions are wondering when (or if) that could change.
What’s Happening at the Federal Level?
Despite growing economic pressure on households, no new federal stimulus checks have been approved for 2025. While lawmakers continue to debate the controversial “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” — which includes one-time payments and tax reforms — nothing has been signed into law to authorize another round of direct relief to Americans like the checks issued in 2020, 2021, and early 2022.
That said, some Americans may still receive large payouts through other channels — especially if they’re due refunds or missed out on earlier programs.
State Stimulus Programs: Who’s Paying Now?
Several U.S. states have stepped up with their own economic relief programs in the absence of a federal stimulus. Here are some of the most active programs:
California – $725 Monthly Checks (Pilot Program)
A new program called the Family First Economic Support Pilot (FFESP) is now distributing $725 each month to 200 qualifying low-income families in Sacramento. The payments began June 15, 2025, and will continue through July 2026. This pilot program focuses on economic resilience and is a form of guaranteed basic income.
New York – Up to $500 One-Time Refunds
The Inflation Refund program began rolling out payments in April 2025. Single filers earning up to $150,000 are eligible for $300, while married couples making up to $300,000 can receive $500. Most payments are being sent out automatically based on 2023 tax filings.
Colorado – TABOR Tax Refunds Up to $1,600
Thanks to the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), residents who filed 2023 tax returns may receive refunds of $800 for individuals and $1,600 for joint filers. Payments are scheduled for mid to late summer 2025.
Georgia – Up to $500 in Inflation Relief Payments
The state is issuing rebates of $250 for single filers, $375 for heads of household, and $500 for joint filers. To qualify, residents must have filed state taxes for both 2023 and 2024. Payments are expected within 6–8 weeks of filing.
IRS Refunds and Recovery Credits: Are You Still Owed Money?
Even if a new federal stimulus check isn’t in the cards yet, the IRS is still issuing sizable refunds and credits to eligible taxpayers. Here’s what’s available:
$3,000 Tax Refunds (Spring–Summer 2025)
Taxpayers who filed before the April 15, 2025, deadline — especially those who qualified for additional credits or overpaid taxes — are already seeing refunds up to $3,000. If you used direct deposit, you can expect the money between late May and July 25, 2025.
Missed the 2021 Stimulus? You Could Still Claim $1,400
The IRS gave filers until April 15, 2025, to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for missed stimulus money from 2021. If you didn’t file or didn’t receive the full amount, you may still be eligible to claim up to $1,400 — but the window has closed unless you qualified for an extension.
How to Check Your Payment Status
IRS Tools
Use the tool to track the status of federal refunds and credits.
State Resources
Each state’s Department of Revenue website has up-to-date information on stimulus programs, including eligibility tools, FAQs, and contact support.
Final Takeaways
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No new federal stimulus checks have been approved as of June 2025.
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State-level programs in California, New York, Colorado, and Georgia are actively distributing relief.
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The IRS is issuing refunds up to $3,000, with payments arriving through July 2025.
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Stay informed — more relief could be on the horizon if Congress moves forward with pending proposals.
