Confused by stimulus check rumors in your feed? You’re not alone. In 2025, social media posts and clickbait headlines continue to push false claims about $1,390, $1,700, or $2,000 checks. Congress and the IRS have not approved any new stimulus checks this year.
Here’s what’s true, what’s false, and how you can avoid getting scammed.
No new federal stimulus checks in 2025
Ignore the viral posts. Congress has not passed a fourth stimulus package. The IRS has not confirmed any new payments.
- Those rumored $1,390, $1,700, or $2,000 payments don’t exist
- No federal agency authorized new COVID or inflation stimulus programs
- Scammers often spread these stories to steal personal information
The IRS flagged rising text scams and phishing attempts linked to fake payments. These fraudsters push victims to share Social Security numbers or bank information.
Stick to official government sources—IRS.gov or a licensed tax preparer.
The American Worker Rebate Act remains a proposal
Sen. Josh Hawley introduced the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025. His plan proposes direct payments between $600 and $2,400 to qualifying families.
But Congress hasn’t passed this bill. No federal agency distributes funds from it. The program doesn’t exist yet—it’s just a legislative idea.
Some states issued inflation rebate checks
While no federal stimulus exists, a few states delivered one-time inflation payments:
- New York: Up to $200 for individuals earning under $75,000 and $400 for couples under $150,000
- Pennsylvania, Georgia, Colorado: Issued rebates or property tax relief payments
Each state sets its own rules. These state payments do not count as federal stimulus checks.
Third stimulus check deadline passed in April
Taxpayers had until April 15, 2025, to file a 2021 tax return and claim the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit from the third stimulus package.
Missed the deadline? You can’t file late, appeal, or recover that money. The U.S. Treasury now keeps unclaimed funds from that credit.
Trump’s ‘DOGE dividend’ and tariff rebates remain ideas
Former President Trump recently floated new rebate ideas:
- A “DOGE dividend” worth $5,000 for taxpayers, using federal savings
- A rebate plan tied to revenue from new tariffs on imports
Trump hasn’t submitted a plan to Congress. No agency confirmed how these programs would work. Right now, they remain political talking points—not policy.
How to avoid stimulus check scams
Scammers often impersonate the IRS to trick people into giving up personal data.
Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Never click links in emails or texts about checks
- Never share personal or banking info unless on a verified government site
- Use the IRS’s Where’s My Refund tool to track tax payments
- Report fraud to the IRS or the Federal Trade Commission
How to check your tax refund
You can track your federal tax refund in two ways:
- Online at IRS.gov/refunds using the “Where’s My Refund” tool
- By calling the IRS at 800-829-1954
The IRS usually sends direct deposits within 21 days if you filed electronically. Mailed paper checks take six to eight weeks.
Once the IRS accepts and approves your return, you can expect your money soon.
How to check your state tax refund
Most states offer online portals to track tax refunds. For example:
- Delaware: Search the Division of Taxation portal
- Pennsylvania: Use the PA Department of Revenue site
- New Jersey: Check through NJ’s Treasury Department
Visit your state’s official tax department website for the right tracking tool.
What to do if you’re unsure about eligibility
Talk to a licensed tax professional. Log into your IRS.gov account. Always use verified government sources for updates.
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