As Americans continue to navigate inflation and economic uncertainty, many are holding out hope for a fourth round of stimulus checks in 2025. While discussions have been circulating online and in political circles, neither the IRS nor Congress has confirmed plans for any new payments. And for those still trying to claim previous checks — the window has officially closed.
Past Stimulus Checks: A Quick Recap
Millions benefited from the first three stimulus payments during the pandemic:
- First round: $1,200 per adult, $2,400 for couples, plus $500 per child
- Second round: $600 per adult and child
- Third round: $1,400 per individual, plus $1,400 per dependent
The final deadline to claim the third stimulus check ($1,400) was April 15, 2025, marking three years since the 2021 tax year. Even those with a tax extension needed to file by that same date. Unclaimed funds are no longer available — the money has been returned to the U.S. Treasury, with no appeals allowed.
What About a Fourth Check?
Talks of a new $2,000 stimulus have gained traction on social media, but federal officials are urging caution. No legislation has been passed, and no official proposals have been submitted by Congress or the IRS.
In February, former President Donald Trump floated the idea of a $5,000 “DOGE Dividend” during a Miami event, referencing a potential taxpayer payout connected to government savings identified by Elon Musk’s proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Since then, no formal plan or follow-up has been announced.
IRS Refund Timing & Status
If you filed your 2024 federal return electronically by April 15, here’s when to expect your refund:
- Direct deposit: By May 6
- Paper check via mail: By June 16
Keep in mind: submitting your return isn’t the same as having it accepted. Once accepted, you can track your refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool, which updates daily.
You’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your filing status
- Your exact refund amount
The tool will display one of three statuses:
- Return Received – IRS has your return
- Refund Approved – Refund is ready to be issued
- Refund Sent – Payment has been released via direct deposit or mail
You can also check by calling the IRS at 800-829-1954.
For now, there is no confirmed fourth stimulus check, and all deadlines for previous payments have passed. While rumors persist, any official update would need to come through legislation, and there’s no bill on the table at this time.
In the meantime, if you’re expecting a refund, make sure your return was accepted — and use official IRS tools to track it.
