Are We Getting a Stimulus Check in 2025? IRS Refund Status, Eligibility, and State Payments

If you’re waiting for news about a fourth federal stimulus check in 2025, here’s the reality: there is currently no confirmed nationwide stimulus payment, though some targeted relief programs and state-level rebates are in progress. Several states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Colorado, are issuing “inflation relief” or “rebate” checks to help residents offset higher living costs.

Amounts vary by state and income level — for example, New York is giving $200 to individuals earning up to $75,000 and $400 to married couples earning up to $150,000.

Fourth Federal Stimulus Check

Despite speculation on social media about a $2,000 or $5,000 federal payment, Congress and the IRS have made no official announcement. Past stimulus checks were:

• First Round (2020) – Up to $1,200 per person + $500 per qualifying child
• Second Round (2020–2021) – Up to $600 per person + $600 per qualifying child
• Third Round (2021) – $1,400 per eligible person + $1,400 per dependent

The deadline to claim the third payment — via the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit — was April 15, 2025. Any unclaimed payments are now forfeited to the U.S. Treasury.

State-Level Stimulus and Rebates

While there’s no fourth federal stimulus, certain states are providing relief:

• New York – $200 for individuals (income ≤ $75,000), $400 for couples (income ≤ $150,000)
• Pennsylvania, Georgia, Colorado – Property tax or general rebate checks with different eligibility rules
• Other states – Varying programs depending on budget surpluses and legislative approval

“DOGE Dividend” Proposal

In February, former President Trump mentioned a possible $5,000 “DOGE dividend” to taxpayers, funded by 20% of savings from a government efficiency program. However, no formal plan or legislation has been introduced.

Where’s My Federal Tax Refund?

If you filed your federal return electronically with bank details included, you can expect a direct deposit within 21 days of IRS acceptance. Paper checks may take 6–8 weeks.

How to Check Your Refund Status:

• Use the “Where’s My Refund” tool at IRS.gov (available 24 hours after e-filing)
• Enter your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount
• Status options:
  1. Return Received (processing)
  2. Refund Approved (scheduled for payment)
  3. Refund Sent (on the way to your bank or mailed)

You can also call the IRS at 800-829-1954 for automated updates.

Key Takeaways

• No confirmed fourth federal stimulus for 2025
• Recovery Rebate Credit claims closed April 15, 2025
• State-level relief programs are active in some areas
• IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool is the fastest way to track refunds
• Always use official sources to avoid scams

FAQs