Stimulus Check 2023: Current Financial Relief Options and Claiming Past Benefits

Stimulus check 2023 inquiries often stem from questions about new federal payments. It is important for individuals seeking information on financial assistance to have the most current details. The landscape of government aid has shifted since the initial waves of pandemic-related support.

What's the Latest on Stimulus Check 2023?

As of late 2023 and looking into 2024 and 2025, the federal government is not issuing new, broad-based stimulus checks similar to the three rounds distributed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Those programs, formally known as Economic Impact Payments, were temporary measures.

Focus on Past Benefits and State Initiatives

While widespread new payments are not forthcoming, this does not mean all avenues for financial relief are closed. The focus has now largely transitioned to ensuring eligible individuals claim benefits they were entitled to from past programs. Additionally, various state-level initiatives may offer assistance.

Understanding these distinctions is key to navigating the current financial support environment. The primary federal opportunity currently available relates to unclaimed funds from the third round of Economic Impact Payments, which can be claimed as the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. Furthermore, numerous states have implemented their own financial assistance programs, offering tax rebates, credits, or other forms of relief to their residents. This information aims to clarify these available options and guide individuals on how to explore potential eligibility.

Federal Stimulus Flashback: Securing Your 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit

While new federal stimulus checks are not being distributed, opportunities to claim previously authorized payments still exist. The 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit is a key example. Understanding the history of federal payments provides context for these current opportunities.

A. A Quick Look at Past Federal Economic Impact Payments (EIPs)

Overview of EIP Rounds

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government authorized three rounds of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs). These payments aimed to provide financial relief to millions of Americans coping with economic disruptions. The first EIP was authorized by the CARES Act in March 2020. The second followed with the COVID-related Tax Relief Act in December 2020, and the third was part of the American Rescue Plan Act in March 2021. Most eligible individuals received these payments automatically based on their tax return information.  

The amounts and eligibility criteria varied slightly for each round. For instance, the first payment provided up to $1,200 per eligible adult and $500 per qualifying child. The second provided up to $600 per eligible person, and the third provided up to $1,400 per eligible person, including dependents.  

Table 1: Federal Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) at a Glance

B. No Fourth Round: Confirming the Status of Federal Stimulus Checks

Current Federal Stance

It is crucial to understand that Congress has not authorized a fourth round of federal stimulus checks. No such payments were issued in 2023. There are no active plans for new, widespread federal stimulus checks in 2024 or 2025 based on current legislation.  

Reports or claims suggesting otherwise are not accurate. The pandemic-era direct relief programs at the federal level have concluded. The focus has shifted to resolving any outstanding payments from the previous rounds.

C. The 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC): Your Chance for Unclaimed Funds

Claiming Missed Third EIP

For individuals who did not receive the full amount of their third Economic Impact Payment, or did not receive it at all, the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) offers a way to claim these funds. This credit is claimed on a 2021 federal income tax return (Form 1040).  

This is not a new stimulus payment. It is a mechanism to receive the third EIP if it was missed or if the initial payment was less than the amount for which an individual was eligible based on their 2021 tax information.

IRS Efforts for RRC Distribution

The IRS has made efforts to reach individuals who might be eligible for the RRC. In late 2024, the agency announced plans to issue automatic payments to approximately one million taxpayers. These taxpayers filed a 2021 tax return but did not claim the RRC they were eligible for, or claimed $0. These payments were expected to be sent by late January 2025. However, for those who did not file a 2021 return or believe they are still owed money, taking action is necessary.

1. Who is Eligible for the 2021 RRC?

Eligibility for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit generally mirrors the criteria for the third Economic Impact Payment. However, it is based on an individual's 2021 tax year information rather than 2019 or 2020 information. To be eligible, an individual typically must:  

• Have been a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident alien in 2021.
• Not have been claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2021 tax return.
• Have a valid Social Security Number (SSN). Dependents claimed for the credit must also have a valid SSN or an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN).  

Income is a key factor. The full credit was available to individuals with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on their 2021 tax return of up to:

• $75,000 for single filers.
• $112,500 for heads of household.
• $150,000 for married couples filing jointly and qualifying widow(er)s. The credit amount phases out for those with AGIs above these thresholds.  

Changes in circumstances in 2021 could make someone eligible for the RRC. This applies even if they did not qualify for the initial third EIP or received a reduced amount. For example, if an individual's income was lower in 2021 compared to 2020, they might now be eligible. Similarly, if they had a child born or adopted in 2021, they might qualify for the credit or a larger credit amount.

2. How Much Could You Receive?

The maximum 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit is $1,400 per eligible person. This includes all qualifying dependents claimed on the 2021 tax return. For example, an eligible individual with two qualifying dependents could receive up to $4,200 ($1,400 x 3). The actual amount of the credit will be reduced by any third Economic Impact Payment amount that was already received.

3. The Critical Deadline: File by April 15, 2025

There is a critical deadline to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. A 2021 federal income tax return (Form 1040) must be filed with the IRS by April 15, 2025. This deadline is particularly important for individuals who do not normally file a tax return because their income is below the filing threshold.  

Even if an individual had little or no income in 2021, they must file a 2021 tax return by this date to claim the credit if eligible. Missing this deadline means any unclaimed 2021 RRC funds will be forfeited.

4. How to Claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit

To claim the 2021 RRC, eligible individuals must file a 2021 tax return (Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR for seniors). They can also amend a previously filed 2021 return if the credit was not originally claimed. The Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet in the 2021 Form 1040 instructions can help calculate the credit amount. Tax preparation software can also assist with this calculation.  

As mentioned, the IRS began sending automatic payments in late 2024 or early 2025 to some taxpayers. These were for those who filed a 2021 return but appeared eligible for the RRC and did not claim it. Those receiving such a payment and an accompanying letter from the IRS generally do not need to take further action unless they believe the amount is incorrect or they are due more.  

For individuals who did not file a 2021 tax return at all, filing one by the April 15, 2025, deadline is the only way to claim the credit. To accurately calculate the RRC, it is necessary to know the total amount of the third Economic Impact Payment received. This information can be found by checking an IRS Online Account or referring to IRS Notice 1444-C or Letter 6475, which were mailed to recipients of the third EIP.

5. Is the Recovery Rebate Credit Taxable?

The 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit is not considered taxable income for federal income tax purposes. Receiving the credit will not affect an individual's eligibility for federal government assistance or benefits. The credit will either reduce the amount of tax owed for 2021 or be included as part of a tax refund.  

Table 2: 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit - Key Details

D. What If You Missed Other Federal Payments (EIP 1 or EIP 2)?

Status of EIP 1 and EIP 2 Claims

The opportunity to claim missed first or second Economic Impact Payments via the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit has generally passed. This is because the typical three-year statute of limitations for filing such claims by filing or amending a 2020 tax return would have ended in 2024.

Requesting a Payment Trace

However, if an individual believes a first, second, or third EIP was issued to them by the IRS but they never actually received it, they may be able to request a payment trace. This could be due to the payment being lost, stolen, or sent to an old address or bank account. This process involves contacting the IRS or submitting Form 3911, Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund. This is different from claiming the RRC for payments never calculated or issued based on initial tax data; a trace is for payments the IRS records show as sent but which were not received by the taxpayer.

State-Sponsored Financial Aid: Relief Programs Across the Nation

While federal stimulus programs have wound down, many states have continued to provide financial assistance. These programs operate under state-specific rules and funding.

A. Beyond Federal: How States Are Providing Support

State-Level Initiatives

In the absence of new broad federal stimulus, a number of states have utilized budget surpluses or other funds to implement their own relief measures. These state-level programs are diverse. They reflect the unique economic conditions and priorities of each state.

Consequently, the type of aid, eligibility requirements, and payment amounts can vary significantly from one state to another. It is essential for residents to look to their own state government for information on any available assistance.

B. Common Types of State Relief Initiatives

State financial relief programs have taken several common forms. Understanding these categories can help individuals identify potential aid in their locality:

• Tax Rebates: Many states have issued one-time payments to taxpayers, often based on their filed state income tax returns from a previous year. These are frequently a way to return a portion of a state budget surplus to residents.  
• Inflation Relief Payments: Some payments have been specifically designated as inflation relief, designed to help households manage the rising cost of living.  
• Property Tax Relief/Rebates: Several states offer programs to reduce the burden of property taxes for homeowners and, in some cases, renters. These can be in the form of credits, rebates, or exemptions.  
• Child Tax Credits or Earned Income Tax Credits (State-Level): Some states have established their own child tax credits or enhanced their versions of the Earned Income Tax Credit to provide targeted support to families and low-to-moderate-income workers.  
• Guaranteed Income/Universal Basic Income (UBI) Pilots: A few localities or states have launched pilot programs that provide regular, unconditional cash payments to a targeted group of low-income residents to study the effects of a guaranteed income.  
• Energy Assistance or Specific Hardship Funds: States may also offer specialized assistance for utility bills or other specific needs, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Funding Sources for State Programs

The funding for these state programs often comes from state revenues, including budget surpluses. It can also come through federal allocations like the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) program authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act. This program provided resources to state, local, and Tribal governments to support COVID-19 response and recovery.

C. Overview of State Initiatives (Illustrative Examples)

The range of state-led financial aid is broad. The following examples are illustrative of the types of programs that have been implemented. They are not an exhaustive list. Residents must consult their own state's official resources for definitive information.

Table 3: Examples of State-Level Relief Initiatives (Illustrative)

Other State Examples

Other states, such as Alaska with its Permanent Fund Dividend, have also had programs. South Carolina offered tax refunds, while Illinois provided earned income and child tax rebates. New York expanded its EITC and child credits. The key is that these are all state-administered, and details vary widely.  

D. Finding Information Specific to Your State

Consulting Official State Sources

To determine if any state-level financial relief is available, individuals must consult official sources within their state. The most reliable place to start is the official website of the state government. Specifically, look for the Department of Revenue, Department of Taxation, or Treasury Department.  

Searching State Websites

When searching these official state websites, using terms like " tax rebate," " relief payment," " stimulus," or " inflation relief" may yield relevant results. Many states have created dedicated web pages or Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) sections for these specific relief programs. For a general starting point to locate a state's tax agency resources.

IRS Directory for State Websites

The IRS also provides a list of state government websites that can be a useful directory. It is critical to rely on these official channels. Information from unofficial sources can be outdated or inaccurate. State programs often have specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines that must be met.

Key Steps and Staying Informed

Navigating potential financial relief requires proactive steps. Staying informed through reliable channels is also crucial. This includes understanding the role of tax filing and being vigilant against misinformation and scams.

A. The Importance of Filing Your Taxes (Even if You Don't Usually)

Tax Filing for Federal Aid

Filing federal and state tax returns is often a prerequisite for receiving certain types of financial aid. As emphasized, claiming the federal 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit absolutely requires filing a 2021 federal tax return. This applies even for those who typically do not file due to low or no income. This is a crucial step that should not be overlooked by potentially eligible individuals.

Tax Filing for State Aid

Similarly, many state-level relief programs, such as tax rebates or credits, are tied to information from filed state tax returns. Filing taxes for the relevant years ensures that the state has the necessary income and household information to determine eligibility and calculate payment amounts.

Importance of Current Year Filing

Furthermore, filing taxes for the current year, even if not directly tied to a specific stimulus payment, is important. It keeps an individual's address and banking information up-to-date with tax authorities. This can facilitate the delivery of any future state or federal benefits for which they might qualify.

B. Guarding Against Stimulus-Related Scams

Whenever government payments are issued, scammers unfortunately try to take advantage of the situation. It is vital to be cautious and aware of the red flags associated with stimulus-related scams:

• Unsolicited Contact: Be wary of unexpected emails, text messages, or social media messages claiming to be from the IRS or another government agency regarding stimulus payments or financial relief. The IRS typically initiates most contact through official mail.  
• Requests for Personal Information: Government agencies will not call, text, or email to ask for sensitive personal information like Social Security numbers, bank account details, or credit card numbers to "verify" eligibility or "process" a payment.
• Demands for Upfront Fees: Legitimate government relief programs do not require payment of a fee to receive benefits. Any request for an upfront fee or "processing charge" is a major red flag.
• Threats or Urgent Pressure: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency or use threats (e.g., loss of benefits, legal action) to pressure individuals into providing information or money quickly.
• Unrealistic Promises: Be skeptical of promises of "guaranteed" eligibility or unusually large sums of money. Misinformation about speculative payments, like the "DOGE stimulus check" mentioned in some online discussions, can circulate, but these are not official government programs.

Verifying Communications

If there is any doubt about the legitimacy of a communication, it is best to contact the relevant government agency directly. Use information from their official website.

C. Reliable Sources for Financial Relief Information

To obtain accurate and current information about federal or state financial assistance, always turn to official government sources:

• Internal Revenue Service (IRS): For all matters related to federal taxes, including the Economic Impact Payments and the Recovery Rebate Credit, the official IRS website is the primary source.
  • Key IRS resources include information on the Recovery Rebate Credit.
  • Details on past Economic Impact Payments.
  • Individuals can also create or access their IRS Online Account to view their EIP history.  
• USA.gov: This is the official web portal of the U.S. government. It provides a wealth of information, including links to federal agencies and state government resources. It can be a good starting point for navigating government services.  
• Official State Government Websites: For information on any state-specific stimulus payments, tax rebates, or other relief programs, the official website of the relevant state's Department of Revenue, Taxation, or Treasury is the definitive source.

Verify Information

Always verify information obtained from other sources against these official channels. Do this before taking any action related to financial relief programs.

Final Thoughts on Financial Assistance

The landscape of government-issued stimulus payments has evolved significantly. While new, widespread federal checks are not on the horizon, understanding available avenues for past federal benefits and current state-level aid remains important.

A. Recap of Key Takeaways

To summarize the current situation regarding stimulus checks and financial relief:

1. No New Federal Stimulus Checks: The federal government is not issuing new, broad-based stimulus checks in 2023, nor are any planned for the near future.
2. Claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit: The primary federal opportunity is for eligible individuals to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit if they did not receive the full amount of their third Economic Impact Payment. This requires filing a 2021 federal tax return by the April 15, 2025, deadline.
3. Explore State-Level Programs: Many states have implemented their own financial relief programs, such as tax rebates or credits. Residents should check their official state government websites (Department of Revenue or Taxation) for details on eligibility and how to apply.
4. Rely on Official Sources and Beware of Scams: Always use official government websites like IRS.gov and official state portals for information. Be vigilant against scams requesting personal information or fees for stimulus payments.

B. Encouragement to Explore Options

Individuals who believe they might be eligible for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit should investigate these options. Those seeking information about potential state-level assistance are also encouraged to do so. Filing a 2021 tax return, even if not typically required, is a critical step for the federal credit.

Diligently checking official state resources can uncover aid specific to one's locality. While the era of broad federal "stimulus checks" has passed, these targeted opportunities for financial assistance may still provide valuable support.

Frequently Asked Questions