Stimulus checks have served as a vital financial cushion during economic downturns, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the federal government has paused new stimulus distributions, several states are stepping in to offer targeted relief to residents facing ongoing inflation and housing pressures. This June, new state-level stimulus payments are being announced, while misinformation about federal aid continues to spread online.
Final Federal Stimulus Deadline Has Passed
The third and final federal stimulus payment—part of the Economic Impact Payment (EIP) program—could only be claimed during the 2024 tax season. This payment, issued in March 2021, amounted to $1,400 per eligible individual and was provided through the Recovery Rebate Credit.
This marked the last opportunity for individuals who missed the initial distribution to claim their funds. The EIP was part of a broader $4.6 trillion federal COVID-19 relief package, with approximately $931 billion allocated for direct stimulus payments. These checks helped stabilize households amid the 22 million jobs lost during the early pandemic period, a crisis rivaling the Great Depression.
State-Level Stimulus Programs Announced for June
Though the federal stimulus era has ended (for now), several U.S. states have announced targeted relief payments for June 2025 to support residents dealing with high living costs. Here’s a breakdown of what’s coming:
| State | Program Name | Payment Amount | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | Inflation Refund | $150–$400 (October 2025) | Income up to $150,000 (single) or $300,000 (joint filers) |
| Pennsylvania | Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program | Up to $1,000 | Income-based eligibility; homeowners & renters; apply by June 30 |
| Arizona | Families Tax Rebate | $250 per dependent (<17) $100 per dependent (17+) | Must have filed 2021 & 2022 state tax returns |
New York: Inflation Refund
New York will issue inflation relief payments in October 2025, with amounts ranging from $150 to $400, based on income and tax filing status. Over 8 million households are set to receive these payments automatically.
Pennsylvania: Rent and Property Tax Relief
Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program offers eligible residents up to $1,000 in relief. Applications must be submitted by June 30, 2025, and are open to qualified renters and homeowners with lower income levels.
Arizona: Tax Rebates for Families
Arizona is providing one-time rebates of $250 per dependent under 17 and $100 per dependent aged 17 and older, based on 2021 tax returns. These payments are automatic for those who filed state returns for both 2021 and 2022.
Debunking Federal Stimulus Payment Rumors
While some news and social media channels have promoted rumors about new $2,000 and $5,000 federal stimulus checks, these claims are false:
- The $5,000 payment rumor links to unverified claims that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) would issue payments if it met a $2 trillion cost-cutting goal. Not only is this unconfirmed, but DOGE has since lowered its goal to $150 billion.
- The $2,000 payment rumor may stem from confusion around the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit, leading to incorrect assumptions about new federal payments.
At this time, no new federal stimulus checks have been confirmed by the IRS or the U.S. Treasury.
FAQ
Can I still claim my federal COVID-19 stimulus check?
No. The deadline to claim the final federal stimulus check ($1,400) through the Recovery Rebate Credit was during the 2024 tax season.
Who qualifies for Arizona’s tax rebate?
Residents who claimed eligible dependents on their 2021 returns and filed both 2021 and 2022 state tax returns automatically qualify.