Do You Qualify for Another Stimulus Check?

The topic of stimulus checks continues to spark discussions among taxpayers even in 2025. Many are curious about potential new payments under proposals from government officials or wondering about unclaimed payments from previous stimulus rounds issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Below is a detailed breakdown of stimulus check amounts, eligibility criteria, and updates on their status.

Understanding the First, Second, and Third Stimulus Checks

First Stimulus Check

The first stimulus payment, issued in March and April 2020, provided up to $1,200 for individuals and $2,400 for married couples. In addition, families received $500 for each qualifying child under the age of 17.

Second Stimulus Check

The second round of payments, issued by January 15, 2021, included up to $600 per individual, $1,200 for married couples, and $600 for each qualifying child under 17.

Third Stimulus Check

The third stimulus check, issued between March and December 2021, increased the payment to $1,400 per eligible individual. Married couples filing jointly also received $1,400 for each qualifying dependent.

Claiming Unclaimed Stimulus Payments

The opportunity to claim the first and second stimulus payments has now passed. Taxpayers who were eligible for the third stimulus payment, however, had until April 15, 2025, to file their 2021 tax return and claim the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit. This deadline marked the three-year period for claiming tax refunds or stimulus payments.

If you believe you missed out on any stimulus payments, working directly with the IRS or consulting a reputable tax professional is the best course of action. Remember, any unclaimed stimulus payments after the deadlines automatically become the property of the U.S. Treasury. No appeals or extensions are offered.

Speculation Surrounding a Fourth Stimulus Check

Recently, rumors about a fourth stimulus check worth $2,000 have surfaced on social media and certain unverified websites. However, there is no official confirmation from Congress or the IRS about these claims. Taxpayers should approach such information with caution, as it may be misinformation or even an attempt to defraud.

Trump’s DOGE Dividend Plan

In February, former President Donald Trump discussed a possible $5,000 stimulus payment to taxpayers, referred to as a “DOGE dividend,” during a summit in Miami. This proposal involved utilizing 20% of the savings identified by Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). However, Trump has yet to provide further details or outline specific plans for implementing this idea.

Beware of Stimulus Check Scams

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued warnings about scams related to stimulus checks. Some scammers pretend to be the IRS and send fake text messages, claiming eligibility for payments like the $1,400 tax rebate. Always verify the authenticity of such communications directly with the IRS to avoid falling victim to fraud.

Tracking Your Tax Refund

Taxpayers eager to know the status of their federal refunds can rely on several tools and methods offered by the IRS. Below are steps to ensure you stay informed and avoid unnecessary delays.

Expected Timeline for Receiving Tax Refunds

• Electronic Filing: If you filed your federal taxes electronically and included your banking information, direct deposits are typically processed within 21 days.
• Paper Filing: Refunds sent by mail can take approximately six to eight weeks to arrive.

Keep in mind that submitting your return does not guarantee immediate acceptance. Once accepted, you will receive a "Refund Sent" notification when checking your tax return status online, signaling that your funds are on the way.

How to Check Your Refund Status

Online Option: "Where’s My Refund" Tool

The IRS provides an online tool called "Where’s My Refund" that allows taxpayers to track the status of their refunds. This tool is updated daily, and you can begin using it 24 hours after electronically filing your return.

• Visit the "Where’s My Refund" page on the official IRS website.
• Enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount stated on your return.
• The tool will display one of three statuses: Refund Received (processing), Refund Approved (preparing to issue refund), or Refund Sent (on its way).

Once approved, refunds processed via direct deposit may reach your bank account within just days.

Phone Support

If preferred, you can check on your refund status by contacting the IRS at 800-829-1954.

IRS Refund Schedule for 2025

For taxpayers who electronically filed their returns by April 15, 2025, the estimated direct deposit dates for federal refunds are May 6 or June 16 (if sent via mail).