Discussions about stimulus checks have been circulating in the news and social media over the past few months. Many people believe they will receive checks in the mail soon, while others are being warned not to fall for the scam.
Stimulus checks are direct federal payments sent by the U.S. government to households during difficult economic times to help people cover essential expenses and stimulate spending in the economy. The most notable rounds were during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021, when the government sent out payments of up to $1,200, $600 and $1,400 each to eligible taxpayers as part of the economic relief law. The payments are authorized by Congress and distributed by the Internal Revenue Service to millions of Americans to support them during periods of job loss and economic disruption.
In late 2025, former President Donald Trump publicly talked about the idea of issuing a new round of payments, often described as $2,000 “tariff dividend” checks for low- and moderate-income Americans. He said the payments, if they occurred, would likely be released around mid-2026 and would be funded by revenue from tariffs on imported goods.
However, as of now, the proposal has not been approved by Congress or signed into law, and no formal plans exist.
Here’s everything you need to know about stimulus checks.
Who got a $1,400 stimulus check?
Some Americans are still receiving payments of up to $1,400 through December 2025, but these are not new stimulus checks. The payments come from the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, which was part of the third round of COVID-19 stimulus packages approved in 2021. The IRS is issuing these payments to people who were eligible at the time but did not receive the full amount or failed to claim it on their 2021 federal tax return. In many cases, the IRS will automatically send the money based on updated records, while others will have to file or amend a 2021 tax return to receive the money.
Is there a fourth stimulus check coming?
As of December 2025, a fourth federal stimulus check has not been approved or planned. Congress has yet to pass any new stimulus legislation, and the Internal Revenue Service has confirmed that the initial three rounds of Economic Impact Payments have been completed. Claims circulating on social media about new $2,000 checks or additional federal stimulus payments are rumors and misinformation. Any payments issued now will be strictly tied to past unclaimed credit, not a new relief package.
How do I know if I’m getting a stimulus check?
Since a new stimulus package has not yet been approved, no one will be eligible to receive a stimulus check unless the law is passed. If you do not receive an official letter from the IRS and the payment does not log into your online IRS account, the payment may not be legitimate. Also, be wary of email texts claiming payments; the IRS warns these are often scams.
Who is eligible for a stimulus check?
Unless a law is passed, no one will be eligible for a stimulus check. But you can still claim the missing funds as a recovery rebate credit on your 2020 or 2021 tax return, requiring income below certain thresholds, such as about $75,000 for singles and $150,000 for marrieds by the third check, as well as valid Social Security numbers for recipients and dependents. Eligibility is based on income and filing status, with those with higher incomes receiving fewer or no benefits, and benefits extending to dependents, including adults/students with Social Security numbers.
Who is eligible for the AZ tax rebate?
In Arizona, there are no new state stimulus checks; however, state tax rebates are available. The most notable is the Arizona Home Tax Rebate, which is based on previous tax returns. To qualify, individuals must be an Arizona resident, file an Arizona income tax return for the full year 2021, claim the Arizona dependent tax credit, and have at least some Arizona income tax liability. Qualifying taxpayers can receive up to $250 per dependent under 17 and $100 per dependent 17 or older, for a maximum rebate of $750 per family. These payments were previously sent via direct deposit or mail.
Additionally, Arizona lawmakers approved a one-time advanced tax rebate for qualifying residents age 65 and older who file an Arizona tax return and meet certain tax requirements. The rebate is designed as a separate, targeted relief measure administered by the Arizona Department of Revenue. Availability and timing depend on state implementation, not federal stimulus policies.
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This article originally appeared in The Arizona Republic: Who qualifies for stimulus checks? What to know and updates
