Rumors about a new IRS stimulus check in 2025 are spreading fast online — but are they true? Here’s what you need to know about current federal relief programs, tax refunds, and how to safely track your payment status without falling for scams.
Are There Any New Stimulus Checks in 2025?
As of October 2025, there are no new federal stimulus checks approved or scheduled by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or Congress. Viral posts claiming that $1,390, $1,702, or $2,000 payments are being deposited this year are false.
The IRS and U.S. Treasury Department have issued multiple warnings about stimulus payment scams — including fake text messages, phishing emails, and fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
If you see any post claiming that new checks are “on the way,” treat it as misinformation or a scam attempt.
Read More On Stimulus Checks
The Facts About Previous Stimulus Checks
The last approved federal stimulus program was the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) under the American Rescue Plan of 2021, worth up to $1,400 per eligible taxpayer.
- First check (2020): Up to $1,200 for individuals, $2,400 for couples
- Second check (2021): Up to $600 per person
- Third check (2021): Up to $1,400 per eligible individual
The deadline to claim the third and final stimulus check — through the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit — was April 15, 2025.
That means if you didn’t file your 2021 tax return by that date, you can no longer claim it. Unclaimed payments are now forfeited to the U.S. Treasury.
What About the “American Worker Rebate Act”?
A bill known as the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025, proposed by Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO), aims to issue rebate checks between $600 and $2,400 to American families. However, it has not passed Congress, and there is no official approval or payment date.
Until Congress votes to approve such legislation, no rebate or stimulus program is currently active.
Trump’s Tariff Rebate and DOGE Dividend — Explained
Former President Donald Trump has mentioned plans to use tariff revenue to provide taxpayer rebates or “DOGE dividends” (named after the Department of Government Efficiency).
He suggested potential $5,000 payments as part of future tax relief efforts, but no official framework or funding plan has been published.
These ideas remain proposals — not confirmed programs.
Who Is Getting Inflation Relief Payments?
Although there’s no new federal stimulus, several states are issuing inflation relief or rebate checks to residents.
- New York: Inflation refund checks of up to $200–$400 depending on income
- Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Colorado: State rebate programs tied to property or sales taxes
- New Jersey (ANCHOR Program): Up to $1,750 for homeowners over 65 and up to $700 for eligible renters
Each state sets its own eligibility rules and application deadlines.
For example, New Jersey residents can still apply for ANCHOR property tax relief until October 31, 2025, through the official NJ Division of Taxation portal.
How to Track Your IRS Refund or Stimulus Status
If you’re waiting for a tax refund or previously filed for the Recovery Rebate Credit, you can track your payment safely through official government portals.
1. Check Federal Refund Status
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool at irs.gov/refunds.
You’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- Filing status (single, married, etc.)
- Exact refund amount from your return
Refund statuses include:
- Return Received – Processing
- Refund Approved – Payment scheduled
- Refund Sent – Funds on the way via direct deposit or check
The IRS updates this data daily, overnight.
You can also call the IRS Refund Hotline at 800-829-1954.
2. Track State Refunds
Each state operates its own refund tracking portal:
- Delaware: revenue.delaware.gov
- Pennsylvania: revenue.pa.gov
- New Jersey: state.nj.us/treasury/taxation
How to Avoid IRS Stimulus Scams
The IRS warns taxpayers to beware of:
- Messages using “stimulus check” instead of “economic impact payment”
- Fake refund or deposit notices
- Requests for bank details or Social Security numbers
- Promises of “faster processing” for a fee
- Fake checks mailed with instructions to “verify” information
Always verify information through IRS.gov or your state’s official tax website.
If you receive suspicious messages, report them at phishing@irs.gov.
Key Takeaway
No new IRS stimulus checks are scheduled for 2025.
You can still track pending federal and state tax refunds via official portals.
Some state-level rebate and inflation relief programs remain active.
Always confirm payment details through the IRS to avoid scams.
Stay informed with official IRS Stimulus Check Updates and state tax announcements to know exactly where your refund or relief payment stands.