As of April 2025, millions of Americans are still benefiting from government stimulus programs. While there have been no new federal stimulus checks since the last round in 2021, several groups are still receiving financial relief through unclaimed Recovery Rebate Credits and state-level programs. In addition to federal payments, many states are continuing to offer relief checks to eligible residents. Here’s what you need to know if you’re wondering whether you’ll be receiving a check in April 2025.
Federal Stimulus: Unclaimed Recovery Rebate Credits
One of the key sources of stimulus payments for people still receiving checks in 2025 comes from unclaimed Recovery Rebate Credits. These credits were part of the federal relief measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the third round of stimulus checks in 2021.
Who is Eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit?
If you didn’t claim your $1,400 stimulus check in 2021, you may still be eligible for a Recovery Rebate Credit. The IRS has continued issuing payments to those who missed out or failed to file a claim in previous years. If you qualify, the payment can be up to $1,400 for individual taxpayers, or $2,800 for married couples filing jointly. In addition, dependent children may also increase the total amount of the rebate.
To qualify for the full payment, your adjusted gross income (AGI) must be under specific limits:
- $75,000 for individuals
- $150,000 for married couples filing jointly
These income limits apply for full payments, with the rebate gradually phasing out for higher-income earners. For example, single filers with an AGI above $80,000 and married couples filing jointly above $160,000 are not eligible for this credit.
The IRS is automatically issuing the Recovery Rebate Credit to eligible individuals, and many people are receiving payments without needing to take further action. However, if you haven’t yet received this payment and believe you may be eligible, filing an amended tax return could help you claim it. The IRS deadline to claim any unreceived stimulus payments is May 17, 2025, so time is running out to apply.
For more details on how to claim your Recovery Rebate Credit, visit the official IRS website.
State-Level Stimulus and Relief Payments
In addition to federal payments, several states are offering their own forms of financial relief for 2025. These payments are often designed to assist residents in response to state budget surpluses or to address ongoing economic recovery needs.
1. California
California residents continue to benefit from the Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR), which is part of the state’s ongoing stimulus efforts. The state is also running Universal Basic Income (UBI) pilot programs in certain cities, providing regular monthly payments to low-income residents. The final wave of these payments is being sent out in April 2025.
For more information about California’s ongoing stimulus programs, visit the California Franchise Tax Board.
2. Colorado
Colorado is issuing its annual Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) refund. This program, which returns excess state revenue to residents, is available to individuals who filed a 2023 tax return. Payments typically range from $500 to $1,000, depending on income and filing status.
Learn more about Colorado’s TABOR refund by visiting the Colorado Department of Revenue.
3. New Mexico
New Mexico is offering a Low-Income Tax Rebate for residents who earned under $75,000 as a single filer or $150,000 as a joint filer. This rebate is designed to assist low- to moderate-income individuals, with payments expected to arrive in April 2025.
Visit the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department for more details.
4. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania seniors and low-income renters or homeowners are still receiving payments through the Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) program. This ongoing initiative helps reduce the financial burden for qualifying residents, with payments expected in late spring.
For more information, check out the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
5. Alaska
In Alaska, residents who meet certain criteria are receiving their Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) payments. These annual dividends are available to individuals who have lived in the state for a full year and have applied within the designated window.
6. Georgia & South Carolina
Both Georgia and South Carolina are issuing state income tax refunds to eligible residents for the 2023 tax year. These refunds are being sent out in waves, with most residents receiving payments by late spring.
To learn more about Georgia’s and South Carolina’s state tax refunds, visit the Georgia Department of Revenue and South Carolina Department of Revenue.
7. Illinois
Illinois residents are benefiting from enhanced Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Rebates. These payments are designed to support working families, and the state has increased the maximum benefit for 2023.
For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Revenue.
How to Claim Your Stimulus Payment
If you think you’re eligible for any of these programs, the first step is to check your eligibility. Each state has specific guidelines, and many require you to file your taxes in order to qualify.
- Recovery Rebate Credit: If you missed claiming your federal stimulus checks, file a 2021 tax return by May 17, 2025, to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. You can use IRS Free File to file your return, even if you have no other income to report. More details are available on the IRS website.
- State Programs: Each state’s Department of Revenue website will provide information on eligibility, application processes, and payment schedules. Make sure your banking information is up to date to avoid any delays.
Conclusion
While there are no new federal stimulus checks as of April 2025, numerous Americans are still receiving financial relief through the Recovery Rebate Credit and state-level stimulus programs. If you haven’t yet claimed your payment, it’s important to act quickly especially as deadlines for claiming the 2021 stimulus checks are fast approaching. Make sure to visit your state’s Department of Revenue or the IRS website for guidance on how to apply.