The IRS confirms no federal stimulus checks for September 2025, debunking rumors of $1,390 payments. States like Alaska and New York offer relief, and a proposed federal bill may bring future aid. Check eligibility through official sources like IRS.gov or state websites.
No Federal Stimulus Checks Planned
The IRS has clarified that there will be no federal stimulus checks in September 2025. Rumors circulating online about $1,390 payments are false. The last federal Economic Impact Payments were already completed: $1,200 in 2020, $600 in 2020 and early 2021, and $1,400 in 2021. Those who missed out were allowed to claim Recovery Rebate Credits by filing amended 2020 or 2021 tax returns, but the deadline for 2021 claims expired in April 2025.
Currently, individuals expecting money from the IRS are most likely due a regular tax refund, which can be tracked through the official “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov. These refunds are often mistaken for stimulus checks but are part of normal tax processing.
State Relief Programs in 2025
While no federal checks are planned, some states continue to provide direct financial relief to residents.
Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)
In 2025, Alaska is distributing a Permanent Fund Dividend of $1,702 per eligible resident. This amount includes a $1,403.83 base dividend and a $298.17 energy relief bonus. Payments begin on September 11, 2025, for those with “eligible-not paid” status by September 3. Additional batches are scheduled for October 2 and October 23. To qualify, applicants must have been residents of Alaska for the entirety of 2024 and must intend to remain in the state.
New York Inflation Relief Checks
New York is sending out inflation relief checks ranging from $150 to $400. Eligibility is based on 2023 state tax filings. Single filers with incomes up to $75,000 will receive $200, while those earning between $75,001 and $150,000 will get $150. Joint filers with incomes up to $150,000 will receive $400, and those earning between $150,001 and $300,000 will receive $300. More than eight million checks are expected to be mailed beginning in late September 2025. No separate application is required.
Proposed Federal Legislation
Although no new federal checks are scheduled, there is a proposal in Congress. Senator Josh Hawley has introduced the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025, which would provide tariff-funded rebate payments of $600 for each adult and dependent child, with a maximum of $2,400 for a family of four. The measure is backed by former President Donald Trump but remains in the Senate Finance Committee as of September 2025. Since it has not been approved, no federal payments are imminent.
How to Verify Eligibility
To avoid misinformation, individuals should rely only on official sources. The IRS website (IRS.gov) can be used to track tax refunds or review prior credits. For state programs, Alaskans can confirm their status at pfd.alaska.gov, while New Yorkers can check eligibility and updates at tax.ny.gov. Regular benefits such as Social Security or Supplemental Security Income continue on their standard schedules and should not be confused with stimulus programs. Always verify updates through trusted government portals to avoid scams.