As of April 2025, while there are no new federal stimulus checks, several U.S. states are offering financial help to their residents through rebates, tax credits, and cash payments.
These payments are part of state programs designed to ease the burden of inflation and rising costs. The benefits and rules vary from state to state, and many depend on whether you’ve filed your taxes for 2023 and 2024.
In this article, we’ll break down the most recent updates on stimulus-style payments available in five U.S. states, including how much you could receive and how to qualify.
Georgia: Get a Tax Refund from the State’s Surplus
Georgia is giving out tax rebates thanks to extra money left over from its 2023 budget. These refunds are automatic if you meet the filing rules. Single filers can get $250, heads of households get $375, and married couples filing together get $500.
If you’re a part-year resident, your amount depends on how much you earned in Georgia. To get the money, you need to file your 2023 and 2024 state tax returns by May 1, 2025. Payments are usually sent out within 6 to 8 weeks after you file.
Colorado: Refunds Through TABOR Law
Colorado uses the TABOR law to return surplus tax money to residents. In 2024, the refund ranges from $177 to $1,130, based on your income and tax filing status. If you filed your taxes before April 15, 2025, you should have already received your refund.
If you asked for a tax extension until October 15, 2025, your refund will come later. Make sure you selected the refund option on your tax return to receive it automatically.
Michigan: Extra Tax Credit for Working Families
Michigan is helping working families by increasing the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). You can get an average of $836, which is 30% of the federal EITC.
To qualify, you must meet the federal income limits and have earned income during 2024. If you filed your 2024 Michigan taxes before April 15, 2025, you should already have the money. If you used the tax extension, you can still claim it by October.
New Jersey: ANCHOR Program for Renters and Homeowners
New Jersey’s ANCHOR program offers financial help to renters and homeowners. Homeowners can get up to $1,750, and renters can receive up to $1,100, depending on their income.
Applications opened in March 2025 and close on October 31, 2025. Payments will start going out from September 15, 2025. To apply, you need to fill out and send Form PAS-1, which was mailed to residents in early March.
New York: Proposal for Inflation Relief Checks
New York has a proposal that, if passed, will give $300 to single filers and $500 to couples. These payments would be based on income and would only be sent out if the state budget is approved.
As of April 23, 2025, the plan hasn’t been confirmed yet. It’s best to check the New York State Department of Taxation website for updates.
What About Other States?
A few other states also have programs:
California’s Sacramento Family First program gives $725 per month to 200 families, running until November 2025.
Virginia is discussing state rebates between $200 and $400, but no final decision has been made.
In Pennsylvania, the deadline to apply for tax refunds was December 31, 2024, so it’s now closed.
Each state has different rules, so it’s a good idea to check your state’s official website for details.
While federal stimulus checks are no longer being issued, several states are stepping in to help residents with rebates and credits. If you live in Georgia, Colorado, Michigan, New Jersey, or New York, you may be eligible for these benefits in 2025.
Be sure to check the filing deadlines and complete any required forms to claim your money. Keep an eye on state announcements, especially if your state is still reviewing or proposing new financial aid programs. These payments can make a real difference in managing living costs.
