If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you’ve probably seen all kinds of posts claiming that Americans are getting $1,390, $1,702, or even $2,000 stimulus checks this year. And honestly, I get why people click—when budgets are tight, even the idea of extra money feels like a lifeline.
But here’s the thing: most of those posts are flat-out misinformation. No approved fourth stimulus check exists right now, and believing the wrong source can get you scammed. So let’s break down what’s actually happening, who is getting payments in 2025, and how to safely check your refund or rebate status without risking your identity.
So… Are We Actually Getting a New Stimulus Check?
There is a proposal on the table called the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025, introduced by Sen. Josh Hawley. If passed, it would send $600 to $2,400 to qualifying taxpaying families. Sounds great, right?
But it’s still stuck in Congress. No vote. No approval. No checks going out.
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The IRS and Congress haven’t announced any new federal stimulus program.
And those online “$2,000 direct deposit coming next week” posts?
Most are clickbait. Some are attempts to steal your personal information.
That’s why the IRS has repeatedly warned people to ignore messages, texts, or emails promising new payments—especially if they ask for bank details or Social Security numbers.
What About Trump’s Tariff Rebate or the DOGE Dividend?
Former President Donald Trump mentioned two ideas:
- A tariff rebate check funded by new tariff revenue
- A $5,000 “DOGE dividend” tied to government efficiency savings
Both ideas made headlines.
Neither has been implemented, confirmed, or detailed.
So again—interesting concepts, but nothing active, approved, or scheduled.
Who Is Getting Payments in 2025?
Several states are sending out their own relief:
Inflation Relief Checks
States like New York, Georgia, Colorado, and Pennsylvania issued one-time payments to offset high sales taxes.
Example:
- Individuals earning under $75,000 → $200
- Couples under $150,000 → $400
ANCHOR Property Tax Relief (New Jersey)
Depending on age and income, residents may get:
- $1,750 (homeowners 65+)
- $1,500 (homeowners under 65)
- $700 (renters 65+)
- $450 (renters under 65)
Applications closed on Oct. 31.
How to Check Your IRS Tax Refund Safely
If you filed electronically and added your banking info, the IRS usually sends refunds in 21 days. Without direct deposit, expect 6 to 8 weeks.
To check your refund:
- Use the official Where’s My Refund? tool (updated daily)
- Enter your SSN, filing status, and refund amount
- Look for: Return received → Refund approved → Refund sent
The IRS never asks for personal info by text or random email. If you get one—delete it.
Is It Still Possible to Claim Old Stimulus Checks?
No.
All three COVID-era stimulus checks are now past their claim deadlines.
The final deadline—April 15, 2025—for the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit has passed, and unclaimed payments legally revert to the U.S. Treasury.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a fourth federal stimulus check approved?
No. Despite rumors, Congress and the IRS have not approved any new federal stimulus payments. Only state-level rebates and relief programs are active.
2. Is the American Worker Rebate Act sending checks?
Not yet. It’s a proposal, not a law. Until Congress passes it, no payments will be issued.
3. How do I safely check my refund status?
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. Avoid texts, emails, or calls asking for SSNs or bank details—those are scams.
