Fourth Stimulus Checks 2025 – Latest Updates on Eligibility, Amounts, and Payment Timeline

Introduction

As of October 2025, there is no new federal fourth stimulus check authorized by Congress or announced by the IRS. The federal government concluded its distribution of Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks) in 2021.

However, some individuals may still be eligible to claim unreceived payments from previous stimulus rounds. Additionally, certain states are implementing their own relief programs to assist residents.

Understanding Stimulus Checks

Stimulus checks, also known as Economic Impact Payments, were direct financial assistance provided by the U.S. federal government to individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. These payments aimed to alleviate economic hardships caused by the pandemic and were distributed in multiple rounds:

• First Round: Authorized by the CARES Act in March 2020.
• Second Round: Authorized by the COVID-related Tax Relief Act of December 2020.
• Third Round: Authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act in March 2021.

Each round had specific eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and distribution timelines.

Eligibility for Previous Stimulus Payments

While new federal stimulus payments are not being issued, individuals who did not receive full payments in previous rounds may still be eligible to claim them. Eligibility for these payments was generally based on:

• Adjusted Gross Income (AGI): Individuals with AGI below certain thresholds were eligible for full or partial payments.
• Tax Filing Status: Single filers, heads of household, and married couples filing jointly had different eligibility criteria.
• Dependents: Claiming dependents could increase the payment amount.

For instance, the third round of stimulus checks provided up to $1,400 per eligible individual, with an additional $1,400 per dependent.

Claiming Unreceived Payments

If you believe you were eligible for a stimulus payment but did not receive it, you may be able to claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing your tax return. The IRS has issued all first, second, and third Economic Impact Payments.

However, people who are missing stimulus payments should review the information below to determine their eligibility to claim a Recovery Rebate Credit for tax year 2020 or 2021. Individuals can view the total amount of their first, second, and third Economic Impact Payment amounts under the Tax Records page of their IRS online account.

If you did not receive a payment or received less than the full amount, you may be eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. To do so, you must file a 2020 or 2021 federal tax return, even if you are not otherwise required to file.

State-Level Relief Programs

While the federal government is not issuing new stimulus checks, several states have implemented their own relief programs to assist residents:

• California: Distributed Golden State Stimulus payments to eligible residents.
• Colorado: Issued TABOR (Taxpayer Bill of Rights) refunds.
• Florida: Provided property tax rebates.
• Georgia: Offered tax rebates to residents.
• Massachusetts: Issued 62F refunds.
• Michigan: Provided Working Families Tax Credit.
• New Jersey: Implemented various relief programs.
• New York: Distributed inflation relief checks.
• Pennsylvania: Offered rebates.
• Virginia: Provided tax rebates.

These state-level programs vary in eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and distribution timelines. Residents should check with their state’s tax authority or official government website for specific information.

Scams and Misinformation

With the ongoing discussions about stimulus payments, there has been an increase in scams and misinformation. Some individuals may receive fraudulent messages claiming they are eligible for a fourth stimulus check or asking for personal information. It’s essential to be cautious and verify any information through official channels.

The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers via email, text messages, or social media to request personal or financial information. If you receive such communications, do not respond and report them to the IRS.

Conclusion

As of October 2025, there is no new federal fourth stimulus check authorized by Congress or announced by the IRS. Individuals who did not receive full payments in previous rounds may still be eligible to claim them through the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing their tax return.

Additionally, several states have implemented their own relief programs to assist residents. It’s crucial to stay informed through official channels and be cautious of scams and misinformation.

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