For months, social media has been buzzing with speculation about a possible fourth stimulus check in 2025. Some posts suggest payments ranging from $1,390 to $2,000, while others claim Americans could receive a proposed $5,000 “DOGE dividend” backed by President Donald Trump, according to a Citizen Times report.
But in reality, neither the IRS nor Congress has approved such payments. The IRS has even issued warnings about scams, reminding taxpayers to beware of fraudulent texts and emails asking for financial details under the pretense of new stimulus checks or rebates, the report added.
What Happened to Pandemic-Era Stimulus Checks?
As noted by a Wicked Local report, the federal government issued three rounds of stimulus payments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- First check (April 2020): $1,200 for individuals, $2,400 for married couples filing jointly, plus $500 per child under 17.
- Second check (January 2021): $600 per person, with an additional $600 per qualifying child.
- Third check (March–December 2021): $1,400 for individuals and couples, plus $1,400 per dependent.
All federal stimulus claims are now closed, with the final Recovery Rebate Credit deadline passing on April 15, 2025.
Could Tariff Rebates Be Next?
A Kiplinger report highlighted that President Trump floated the idea of using tariff revenue to fund rebate checks. Senator Josh Hawley introduced the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025, which would provide at least $600 per adult and dependent child. However, the proposal has not yet passed Congress and remains only a concept.
The “DOGE Dividend” Claim
Another circulating idea is the so-called “DOGE dividend,” pitched as a potential $5,000 payment per taxpayer funded by 20 percent of savings identified by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Economists, however, note that the savings fall far short of what would be required, and without funding or congressional approval, the plan is unlikely to materialize.
State-Level Relief Programs in 2025
While federal stimulus efforts have ended, several states are offering their own relief measures this year, according to Kiplinger:
- California: Sacramento Family First pilot, $725 monthly to 200 families.
- Colorado: TABOR refunds ranging from $177 to $1,130.
- Georgia: Up to $500 tax rebate under House Bill 112.
- New York: Inflation relief payments between $150 and $400 per resident.
- Virginia: One-time rebates of $200 for single filers and $400 for couples.
These programs vary based on state budgets, eligibility requirements, and tax filings.
FAQs
Q1. Is the IRS sending out new stimulus checks in 2025?
No. The IRS is only issuing final unclaimed 2021 stimulus payments. No fourth federal stimulus check has been approved.
Q2. What is the American Worker Rebate Act?
It’s a proposal for $600 rebates funded by tariff revenue. The bill has not passed Congress.
Q3. Are tariff rebate checks confirmed?
Not yet. They remain proposals awaiting congressional approval.
