Americans across the country are waking up to an unexpected financial boost in 2025 — a one-time stimulus payment of up to $1,300. If you’ve filed taxes recently, receive Social Security, or fall into a low-income bracket, you could be one of the lucky recipients. But not everyone qualifies, and not everyone knows it’s even happening.
What Is This $1,300 Payment All About?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), along with other federal agencies, has launched a targeted effort in 2025 to distribute leftover pandemic relief funds to Americans who may have missed out on earlier stimulus rounds. This includes people who never claimed their Recovery Rebate Credit and those flagged by the IRS as still eligible for catch-up payments.
This time around, the maximum amount is $1,300 per person, and while it’s not a universal payout like earlier stimulus checks, over 1 million Americans are set to benefit from this limited-time disbursement.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,300 Stimulus in 2025?
Here’s the good news: if you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and filed your 2023 tax return, there’s a good chance you qualify—especially if your income falls within moderate or low-income brackets. Here’s a closer look at who’s being prioritized:
-
Seniors receiving Social Security retirement benefits
-
Veterans and individuals on VA disability
-
Low-income households earning under $75,000 (individuals) or $150,000 (married couples)
-
People who missed past stimulus checks and filed a return in 2023 or updated their info with the IRS
-
Those already using direct deposit with the IRS or Social Security Administration
This round is not intended for high earners or those already receiving the full amount in earlier stimulus rounds. Think of this as a second chance for those previously overlooked.
How Will You Receive the $1,300 Payment?
The IRS is using three main delivery methods:
1. Direct Deposit:
Fast, secure, and automatic. If you received your tax refund or past stimulus by direct deposit, expect this one the same way.
2. Paper Check:
If no bank info is available, the IRS will mail a check. Be on the lookout for an official envelope—these are going out weekly in June.
3. Prepaid Debit Card:
A smaller number of recipients may receive a card instead. It will require activation, but it works just like a Visa card for purchases or withdrawals.
Most payments are being processed in waves throughout June and early July 2025, so don’t panic if yours hasn’t arrived yet.
What You Should Do Now
To avoid missing your $1,300:
-
Check your mail and bank account frequently.
-
Verify your address and banking info with the IRS or Social Security portal.
-
Use the IRS “Get My Payment” tool or your state’s tax portal to track progress.
-
Watch for scams—the IRS will never call or email asking for sensitive info.
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, it’s worth logging in to your IRS online account or checking your 2023 tax return to confirm your income and filing status.
What If You Don’t Get a Payment?
If you think you’re eligible but don’t receive a check by July, you may still be able to claim the payment as a rebate credit when you file your 2024 taxes next year. The IRS is also setting up outreach programs to help people get what they’re owed, particularly seniors and disabled individuals who may not be actively filing taxes.
