$1,600 Stimulus Checks Are Coming in April 2025: As of April 2025, millions of Americans may still be eligible to receive up to $1,600 in stimulus payments through federal and state programs. These payments are designed to offer financial relief to families and individuals impacted by economic challenges, including lingering effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and unexpected job or wage disruptions.
Whether you’re a working professional, retiree, student, or small business owner, understanding how to claim this stimulus payment can make a real difference. These payments are not automatic for everyone, so knowing where to look, what paperwork to file, and which deadlines to meet is critical. This article offers a step-by-step breakdown, ensuring that both seasoned taxpayers and financial novices can navigate the process with confidence.
$1,600 Stimulus Checks Are Coming in April 2025
| Program | Amount | Eligibility | Deadline | How to Claim | Official Resource |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Recovery Rebate Credit | Up to $1,400 per individual | U.S. taxpayers who did not receive the third stimulus payment in 2021 | April 15, 2025 | File a 2021 federal tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit | IRS.gov |
| Colorado TABOR Refund | $800 (single) / $1,600 (joint) | Colorado residents who filed a 2023 state tax return by April 15, 2024 | Already passed | No action needed if eligible; payments are automatic | Colorado Department of Revenue |
| California Middle Class Tax Refund | Up to $1,050 | California residents with adjusted gross income below specified thresholds | Varies | No action needed if eligible; payments are automatic | Franchise Tax Board |
| New York State Stimulus Proposal | $300–$500 (proposed) | New York residents meeting specific income criteria (pending legislative approval) | TBD | Awaiting legislative approval; details to be announced | New York State Department of Taxation and Finance |
If you think you missed out on a stimulus payment, you’re not alone. The good news is that the Recovery Rebate Credit offers a second chance to get the funds you may be entitled to. State programs like those in Colorado, California, and potentially New York also provide meaningful relief to eligible residents.
Acting now means you could receive hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars back. Whether you’re catching up on bills, saving for the future, or simply seeking a little breathing room, these stimulus payments are here to help.
File your taxes, check your eligibility, and make use of every available resource. Don’t let this opportunity slip away.
Federal Recovery Rebate Credit Explained
What Is It?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a tax credit offered by the IRS to individuals who did not receive the full third round of stimulus payments in 2021. Many Americans missed this payment due to filing status, income thresholds, tax filing delays, or dependent-related issues that were incorrectly reported.
This credit provides an opportunity to claim your missing payment by filing a 2021 tax return. It applies to both individuals and families, and the amount may vary depending on how much of the original stimulus you received.
Who Qualifies?
You may be eligible if:
- You didn’t receive the third stimulus check (or received less than expected).
- Your 2021 income falls below:
- $75,000 (single filers)
- $150,000 (married filing jointly)
- $112,500 (head of household)
- You are a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
- You or your dependents have a valid Social Security number.
Even if you were not required to file a return in 2021 due to low income, you should file now if you didn’t get the full stimulus amount.
How to Claim It
- Visit IRS Free File or use tax software.
- File a 2021 federal tax return, even if your income was zero.
- Use the Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet included in IRS Form 1040 instructions.
- Submit your return by April 15, 2025.
Payments are typically sent via direct deposit or mailed checks, depending on your tax filing preferences.
State Stimulus Payments
Colorado TABOR Refund
Thanks to the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), Colorado is issuing refund checks from surplus state revenues:
- $800 for single filers
- $1,600 for joint filers
Eligibility:
- You must have filed a 2023 Colorado state tax return by April 15, 2024
- You were a full-year Colorado resident
No additional forms are required if you’re eligible. Checks are issued automatically, and you can track your refund via Revenue Online.
TABOR refunds may vary based on income, filing status, and other state calculations. If you moved out of Colorado during 2023, you might not qualify.
California Middle Class Tax Refund
The Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR) was designed to help offset high inflation and cost-of-living expenses in California:
- Payments range from $200 to $1,050, depending on income, dependents, and filing status.
- Funded by a record state budget surplus.
Requirements:
- 2020 CA AGI under $250,000 (single) or $500,000 (joint)
- Must have filed 2020 state taxes by October 15, 2021
- Must have been a California resident for more than half of 2020
Payments were distributed via direct deposit or prepaid debit cards. For troubleshooting payment issues, visit the Franchise Tax Board MCTR FAQ.
New York Stimulus Proposal
New York lawmakers have introduced a bill to issue $300–$500 stimulus checks to qualifying residents.
Proposed Conditions:
- Income must be within state-defined thresholds: up to $150,000 (single) or $300,000 (joint)
- Residency requirements and tax compliance are expected
While the bill is still in the legislative process, state officials say they are prioritizing low- to moderate-income earners and families with dependents.
Check updates on the New York State Senate website or NY Tax Department.
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FAQs about $1,600 Stimulus Checks Are Coming in April 2025
Can I still get a stimulus check in 2025?
Yes, if you qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit from the 2021 tax year and file your return by April 15, 2025.
What if I never filed taxes before?
You can still claim your credit by filing a late 2021 return. Free filing options are available via IRS.gov.
What if I made less money in 2021 than I do now?
Eligibility for the credit is based only on your 2021 income, not current income.
How long does it take to receive payment?
Most people receive payment within 4–8 weeks after their tax return is accepted.
Are stimulus checks considered taxable income?
No. They are not taxable and do not affect your eligibility for other government benefits.
Can non-citizens qualify?
Only U.S. citizens or resident aliens with valid Social Security numbers are eligible.
Expert Tips to Ensure You Get Paid
- File early: Don’t wait until April 2025—filing now speeds up payment.
- Use direct deposit: It’s faster and more secure than receiving a mailed check.
- Review IRS letters: Notice 1444-C or Letter 6475 can help verify stimulus amounts.
- Use IRS tools: Track status using Where’s My Refund and Get Transcript.
- Check state websites: Each state has unique processes and eligibility rules.
