Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González Colón has announced a new relief payment program that will help nearly 690,000 taxpayers across the island. The program was approved by the Fiscal Oversight Board, and payments are expected to start before the end of May.
How Much Money Is Being Given Out?
The government is distributing a total of $554 million to eligible taxpayers. Payments will be sent out every two weeks through direct deposit to the bank account listed on each person's 2025 tax return.
Who Can Receive This Payment?
To qualify for the relief check, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Filed your 2025 tax return on time (before the deadline)
- Lived in Puerto Rico for all of 2025
- Earned $150,000 or less in net taxable income
- Did not choose the Optional Tax
- Are not subject to the alternative basic tax
This program is designed to help working families and people with low to middle incomes.
Examples of People Who May Qualify
The government shared examples of workers who could receive the payment:
- Teachers (especially those with children)
- Firefighters (single or married)
- Nurses
- College professors
- Social workers
- Veterinarians
- Psychologists
- Architects
- Retirees and veterans
- Married professionals with children
The exact amount each person receives will depend on their income, whether they are single or married, and how many dependents they claimed on their tax return.
Changes to Tax Brackets
The new proposal also changes how much people pay in taxes. Here's a comparison:
| Income Range | Current Tax Rate | New Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $25,000 – $50,000 | 14% (up to $41,500) | 12% |
| $50,000 – $100,000 | 24% (up to $61,500) | 24% |
| $100,000 – $150,000 | 33% | 29% |
| Over $150,000 | 33% | 33% |
These changes will lower the tax burden for many Puerto Rican taxpayers.
How Will You Receive Your Payment?
- If you received a tax refund: The payment will be deposited automatically into the same bank account you used for your 2025 refund.
- If you didn't request a refund: You can provide your bank information through a link on the SURI system (Puerto Rico's online tax portal).
- If you don't have a bank account: A paper check will be mailed to the address the Treasury Department has on file for you.
Bottom Line: If you live in Puerto Rico, filed your 2025 taxes on time, and earn $150,000 or less, you may be eligible for this relief payment. Keep an eye on your bank account or mailbox before the end of May.
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Read more: Is There a $2,000 Stimulus Check Coming in May 2026?
