During the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of families relied on federal stimulus checks for financial support. The government gave out about $814 billion in relief funds during that time.
Now, although the federal government has stopped sending out stimulus checks, some states have started their own programs to help residents with rising costs and boost their local economies.
What Are the States Doing?
Since the end of the public health emergency, the federal government under President Donald Trump has not planned to restart federal stimulus payments.
Instead, individual states are taking action. Not every state is offering direct cash payments—some have tax refunds, guaranteed income programs, or bigger social benefits.
Here’s a summary of what different states are doing:
California: Climate Credit
California is giving discounts on utility bills through a program called the 2025 California Climate Credit. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) will give credits between $35 and $259 to help with utility costs.
New York: Inflation Stimulus Checks
New York has started a new stimulus program for 2025. The state plans to give out $8 million in inflation relief through tax refunds.
- If you file taxes as a single person and earn up to $75,000, you may get up to $200.
- If you file jointly as a couple with an income up to $150,000, you could get up to $400.
- Eligibility is based on your 2023 tax return.
New Mexico: Inflation Rebates
In June 2025, New Mexico gave refunds to eligible taxpayers:
- Single filers received $500.
- Couples filing together received $1,000.
Pennsylvania: Inflation Rebates
Pennsylvania provided rebates of $500 to $1,000 for homeowners and renters with incomes up to $46,520. The amount you get and whether you qualify depend on your tax return.
Other States
Several other states—including Colorado, North Dakota, South Dakota, Georgia, Michigan, and Minnesota—are also giving out stimulus payments to low-income families through different welfare programs.
In Summary
If you live in one of these states and think you might qualify, check with your state’s official websites or tax agencies for more details about eligibility and application deadlines.
-
Read next: Why Some Americans Are Getting Surprise $250 Checks
