New Law Slashes Taxes and Sends Out Stimulus Checks – See If Your Family Gets Paid
Stimulus Checks: As of May 2025, there is no new federal stimulus check program officially enacted, but several recent developments may impact your family’s finances. Understanding these updates can help you plan your budget, reduce your tax burden, and even receive some extra cash. Let’s break down the latest federal and state-level tax relief measures, including key proposals and upcoming deadlines.
Stimulus Checks
| Program | Details | Eligibility | Deadline | Official Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IRS Recovery Rebate Credit | Up to $1,400 for missed 2021 payments | Filed 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025 | Passed | Kiplinger |
| Federal Tax Cuts | Proposed increases to standard deductions and Child Tax Credit | N/A | Pending | WSJ |
| New York Inflation Refund | $150 – $400 per household | Automatic based on 2023 tax data | Fall 2025 | NY Post |
| DOGE Stimulus Proposal | Speculative $5,000 payment | N/A | TBD | SF Chronicle |
While there are no new federal stimulus checks currently available, several tax relief measures and state-level programs like New York’s Inflation Refund are offering potential financial boosts in 2025. Stay informed about ongoing legislative changes to make the most of these opportunities.
IRS Recovery Rebate Credit – Deadline Passed
The IRS Recovery Rebate Credit offered up to $1,400 to approximately one million individuals who missed claiming their 2021 stimulus payments. To qualify, you needed to file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025. Unfortunately, this deadline has now passed, and the IRS is no longer accepting claims for this credit.
Proposed Federal Tax Cuts and Credits – Not Yet Law
The House Ways and Means Committee has introduced a partial tax plan aimed at making the 2017 tax cuts permanent. Key proposals include:
- Increasing the standard deduction by $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for couples.
- Raising the Child Tax Credit from $2,000 to $2,500 through 2028.
- Providing immediate tax relief, potentially saving a middle-income couple around $1,240 in 2025.
These proposals are still under discussion and have not been enacted into law.
New York’s Inflation Refund Checks – Fall 2025
New York State has approved Inflation Refund checks for over 8 million residents as part of its fiscal year 2026 budget. Eligible recipients will receive payments ranging from $150 to $400, depending on income and filing status. No application is necessary, as payments will be automatically issued based on 2023 tax data. Checks are expected to be mailed in the fall of 2025.
Speculative DOGE Stimulus Checks – Just a Proposal
A proposal dubbed the “DOGE dividend“, championed by President Trump and Elon Musk, suggests $5,000 payments to taxpayers, funded by cutting $2 trillion in federal spending. However, this plan is speculative and faces significant skepticism regarding its feasibility and legislative approval.
$2,000 Stimulus Checks Coming in May 2025 for Social Security & SSDI—See If You’re Eligible Now
Social Security 2025 Payment Schedule Just Released—Here’s Exactly When You’ll Get Paid
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FAQs About Stimulus Checks
Q: Is there a new federal stimulus check in 2025?
A: No, as of May 2025, there is no new federal stimulus program enacted.
Q: Can I still claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit?
A: No, the deadline to claim this credit passed on April 15, 2025.
Q: Who qualifies for New York’s Inflation Refund checks?
A: New York residents whose 2023 tax filings meet the income and status criteria will automatically receive these payments in the fall of 2025.
Q: Will the DOGE stimulus checks actually happen?
A: This proposal is speculative and not yet law, facing significant political and economic hurdles.
