The term “stimulus checks” has been one of the most searched financial topics in the United States since 2020. Millions of households relied on these direct cash payments, formally called Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), distributed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even today, in 2025, questions remain: Who was eligible for IRS stimulus checks? Are new stimulus checks coming in 2025? And how do I track my stimulus status?
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about IRS stimulus checks eligibility, the status of new payments, how to fact-check rumors, and ways to track your past or pending payments.
A Brief Background: What Were IRS Stimulus Checks?
Between 2020 and 2021, the U.S. Congress authorized three rounds of stimulus checks:
First Stimulus Check (CARES Act – March 2020)
Up to $1,200 per adult and $500 per qualifying child.
Second Stimulus Check (December 2020)
Up to $600 per adult and per qualifying child.
Third Stimulus Check (American Rescue Plan – March 2021)
Up to $1,400 per adult, child, and eligible dependent.
These payments were designed to boost the economy, provide immediate relief, and help families recover from pandemic-related financial hardship.
The IRS was tasked with distributing the funds, using tax return records, Social Security records, and non-filer portals to identify eligible recipients.
IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility – Who Qualified?
Eligibility for stimulus checks was based on income thresholds, filing status, and dependent rules. Let’s break it down.
1. Income Limits
Stimulus checks were gradually reduced (“phased out”) for higher-income taxpayers:
Single filers: Full payment if AGI ≤ $75,000. Phased out completely at $99,000.
Married filing jointly: Full payment if AGI ≤ $150,000. Phased out at $198,000.
Head of household: Full payment if AGI ≤ $112,500. Phased out at $136,500.
2. Citizenship and Residency
U.S. citizens and resident aliens with a valid Social Security number were eligible.
Nonresident aliens were excluded.
3. Dependent Rules
The first two payments allowed credits for children under 17.
The third payment expanded eligibility to all dependents, including college students and elderly parents.
4. Non-Filers and Special Circumstances
Low-income individuals who did not file taxes could register via the Non-Filers tool.
Social Security, SSI, SSDI, and VA beneficiaries were automatically included.
Recovery Rebate Credit: Claiming Missed Stimulus Payments
If you didn’t receive your full stimulus payment, you could claim it as a Recovery Rebate Credit on your tax return.
2020 Recovery Rebate Credit → Claimed on your 2020 tax return.
2021 Recovery Rebate Credit → Claimed on your 2021 tax return.
The final deadline to file for the 2021 credit was April 15, 2025.
👉 The IRS announced in 2025 that over 1 million taxpayers were still owed stimulus money and began sending automatic payments to some who qualified but hadn’t claimed the credit.
Are Stimulus Checks Coming in 2025? – Fact Check
This is the most asked question in 2025: Are new stimulus checks on the way?
✅ The Facts:
No new federal stimulus checks are scheduled.
The IRS has confirmed that all three rounds of Economic Impact Payments are complete.
Rumors of a $1,390 or $2,000 stimulus check in 2025 are false and widely debunked.
🚫 Rumors vs Reality
Viral posts on social media about “fourth stimulus checks” are misleading.
Fact-check sources like AP News and Houston Chronicle confirm no such program exists.
The IRS has also shut down its “Get My Payment” tool, meaning no new direct payments are in the pipeline.
Possible Future Payments?
While there are no federal stimulus checks, proposals like the American Worker Rebate Act (a tariff-funded rebate) have been discussed in Congress. However, no legislation has passed to authorize new checks.
State-Level Stimulus and Relief Programs
Although federal checks have ended, some states continue to provide relief payments:
California – Middle-Class Tax Refunds, up to $725 per household.
New York – Inflation relief checks ranging from $300–$500.
Colorado – TABOR refunds, $800 for individuals, $1,600 for joint filers.
Alaska – Annual Permanent Fund Dividend, around $1,702 in 2025 (not technically stimulus, but often mistaken for one).
To check your state’s relief programs, visit your state Department of Revenue or tax authority website.
How to Track My Stimulus Status
Since the “Get My Payment” tool is retired, here’s how to track your payments:
1. IRS Online Account
Create or log in to your IRS Online Account.
Go to the Tax Records tab.
Look under Economic Impact Payment Information to view amounts received.
2. IRS Tax Transcripts
Order your tax transcript online or by mail.
Stimulus payments are listed under “Refundable Credits.”
3. Recovery Rebate Credit
If you missed payments, check your prior tax returns for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
4. State Payments
For state-level relief, visit your state’s revenue or treasury website. Many provide tracking portals similar to the IRS.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
“Everyone will get a $2,000 check this summer.”
❌ False. No federal law authorizes new payments.
“The IRS is secretly sending checks.”
❌ False. IRS only sends payments authorized by Congress.
“I can still claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.”
❌ False after April 15, 2025. Deadline has passed.
“Stimulus checks are taxable.”
✅ False. Stimulus checks are not taxable income.
IRS Stimulus FAQs
1. What was the maximum amount I could receive from all three stimulus checks?
Up to $3,200 per adult, plus dependent amounts.
2. How do I check if I received all my payments?
Log in to your IRS Online Account → Tax Records → EIP information.
3. Can I still get a stimulus payment in 2025?
Only if you were part of the 1 million taxpayers owed late payments. Otherwise, deadlines have passed.
4. Are new stimulus checks coming in 2025?
No federal checks are coming. Only state programs remain.
5. Will there ever be another federal stimulus check?
It depends on future legislation. Currently, nothing is approved.
Conclusion
The IRS stimulus checks were a lifeline during the pandemic, but as of 2025, the program has officially ended. There are no new federal stimulus checks planned, despite viral rumors. However, many states continue offering relief through tax rebates, inflation checks, or dividend payments.
If you’re wondering about your own stimulus history, the best way to check is through your IRS Online Account or by reviewing your tax transcripts.
Remember: Stay cautious of scams and viral misinformation. Always rely on IRS.gov or your state tax authority for accurate updates.
This article is based on information from external sources. Read our full disclaimer.
