Stimulus checks, known as Economic Impact Payments, were issued by the IRS in 2020 and 2021 to provide financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. While no new federal stimulus checks are planned for 2025, the IRS distributed special payments in late 2024 to about 1 million eligible taxpayers who missed the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. This guide explains how to address delays in these payments or state-specific rebates.
Status of Federal Stimulus Checks in 2025
The IRS has completed distribution of the first, second, and third Economic Impact Payments, with no new federal stimulus checks scheduled for 2025. Claims of additional payments, such as tariff-related rebates, are inaccurate. However, in December 2024, the IRS issued approximately $2.4 billion in special payments to taxpayers who filed 2021 tax returns but did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. These payments began arriving in late January 2025.
How to Check Federal Payment Status
To verify if you received past Economic Impact Payments, log into your IRS online account and check the Tax Records page. The IRS’s Get My Payment tool is no longer active. For special payments or Recovery Rebate Credit refunds, use the IRS Where’s My Refund tool to track status.
Resolving Delays in Federal Special Payments
If you were eligible for the December 2024 special payments but haven’t received them by late January 2025, confirm the bank account or address on your 2023 tax return. If the bank account was closed, the payment would be returned to the IRS and reissued by mail to your address of record. The deadline to claim a missed 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit by filing a 2021 tax return was April 15, 2025.
Handling Lost or Expired Treasury Checks
If your stimulus check was lost, stolen, destroyed, or expired, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The agency will provide claim forms to process a replacement. Instructional videos in English and Spanish are available to guide you through the form submission process. Complete and return the forms as directed to resolve the issue.
State Rebate Payments in 2025
Several states are issuing tax rebates or relief payments in 2025, often referred to as stimulus checks. These include:
- California: Up to $725 monthly for low-income families through November 2025.
- Colorado: TABOR refunds ranging from $177 to $1,130 for 2023 filers.
- Georgia: Up to $500 for married couples filing 2023 and 2024 returns.
- Michigan: Average of $836 through the Working Families Tax Credit.
- New Jersey: ANCHOR program payments up to $6,500, starting July 2025.
- New York: STAR relief payments of $290–$650, with proposed inflation checks pending.
- Pennsylvania: Property tax/rent rebates up to $1,000.
- Virginia: One-time rebates up to $400 for 2024 filers by November 3, 2025.
For delays in state payments, contact your state’s department of revenue or taxation directly.
How to Avoid and Address Delays
- Update Contact Information: Ensure your bank account and address are current with the IRS or state revenue office.
- Monitor Status Regularly: Use online tools like IRS Where’s My Refund or state-specific portals.
- Act Promptly: Report issues like lost checks immediately to avoid processing delays.
- Keep Records: Retain copies of tax returns and correspondence with the IRS or state agencies.
FAQ: Stimulus Check Delays
Are new federal stimulus checks being issued in 2025?
No, all Economic Impact Payments have been distributed, with no new rounds planned.
What was the deadline to claim a missed 2021 stimulus payment?
The deadline to file a 2021 tax return for the Recovery Rebate Credit was April 15, 2025.
How do I check if I received past stimulus payments?
Access your IRS online account and view the Tax Records page.
What if my December 2024 special payment hasn’t arrived?
Verify if it was returned due to a closed bank account; it will be reissued by mail.
Which states are issuing rebates in 2025?
California, Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia offer various relief payments.
Official Sources for Further Information
- Internal Revenue Service – Economic Impact Payments
- IRS – Recovery Rebate Credit
- U.S. Department of the Treasury – Payments
- Fiscal Service – Payment Integrity and Resolution Services
