The federal stimulus checks that helped millions during the COVID-19 crisis officially ended in 2021. Since then, no new national stimulus plan has been introduced for 2025. However, that doesn’t mean financial help has stopped altogether.
As of April 2025, several U.S. states have created their own programs to support low and middle-income residents. These payments come in the form of tax rebates, credits, and direct assistance, depending on where you live and your financial situation.
Let’s take a look at five states that have confirmed support programs this year, and what you need to know to apply or receive your payment.
Georgia: Tax Refunds from Budget Surplus
In Georgia, residents are receiving automatic tax rebates because of a budget surplus in 2023. Under the Georgia Surplus Tax Refund program, the payment amounts are:
- $250 for single filers
- $375 for heads of household
- $500 for married couples filing jointly
Partial-year residents will get a smaller amount based on their Georgia income. To qualify, you must file your 2023 and 2024 state tax returns by May 1, 2025.
Payment Timeline: Refunds are issued 6–8 weeks after filing, and many have already received theirs by April 23.
Colorado: TABOR Refunds Continue
Colorado offers TABOR refunds (Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights), which return extra state revenue to taxpayers. Refund amounts in 2024 range from $177 to $1,130, depending on your income and filing status.
- People who filed before April 15, 2025, are already receiving their refunds.
- If you filed for an extension until October 15, 2025, your refund will come later.
No need to apply separately — just select the refund option when filing your tax return.
Michigan: Extra Help for Working Families
Michigan offers a 30% boost to the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) through the Michigan Working Families Tax Credit.
- The average credit is $836 per person
- You must qualify for the federal EITC and file your 2024 state taxes
If you filed your taxes before April 15, you’ve likely received the credit. If you filed an extension until October, you can still claim it later.
New Jersey: Anchor Stimulus Program
The ANCHOR program (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters) is offering:
- Up to $1,750 for homeowners
- Up to $1,100 for renters
This program is based on income level. Applications opened in March 2025 and will close on October 31, 2025.
To apply, you must complete form PAS-1, which was mailed to eligible people. Payments are scheduled to begin from September 15.
New York: Inflation Refund Proposal
New York has proposed a new Inflation Refund Check for 2025:
- $300 for single filers
- $500 for couples
This plan depends on approval of the state budget, and as of April 23, 2025, it’s still under review. Payments could be issued in fall 2025 if passed.
Residents should keep checking with the New York State Department of Taxation for official updates.
What About Other States?
- California (Sacramento) is running a Family First program, giving $725 monthly to 200 families until November 2025.
- Virginia is discussing rebates of $200 to $400, but nothing has been approved yet.
- Pennsylvania’s tax refund request window closed on December 31, 2024.
Each state has different rules and deadlines. It’s best to visit your state’s official website to see if you qualify for any assistance.