Missed the ‘DOGE Check’? Here’s Where You Can Get a Surprise Stimulus Payment This Year

If you were hoping for another federal stimulus check this year—sometimes joked about as a “DOGE check”—I’ve got some news: that’s not happening. The federal government isn’t planning any more nationwide payments for 2025.

But don’t get discouraged just yet. A bunch of states are jumping in with their own money-back programs to help people deal with rising costs like inflation, gas bills, and everyday expenses. So even if Uncle Sam isn’t sending you a check, your state might have something lined up.

Let me break down what’s happening state by state, who qualifies, and how you can get your hands on this extra cash or credits:

New York’s Inflation Refund

New York is one of the biggest players here, with Governor Kathy Hochul announcing inflation refund checks for over 8 million residents.

• If you file taxes as a single person and make up to $75,000, you’ll get $200.

• If you file jointly (like married couples) and make up to $150,000, you’ll get $400.

• These checks are rolling out in October and November 2025.

It’s a nice little boost to help with those everyday price hikes we’ve all been feeling.

New Mexico’s Automatic Tax Rebates

In New Mexico, if you filed your state taxes for 2024 and lived in the state all year, you might automatically get a rebate.

• Singles get $500, and joint filers or heads of household get $1,000.

• Just be sure you file by May 31, 2025.

No hoops to jump through—just file, and if you qualify, the money will show up.

Colorado’s Help With Property Tax, Rent, and Heating Costs

Colorado has a special rebate program for folks who might need a little extra help: seniors, disabled people, and surviving spouses.

• If you fit into those groups, you could get up to $1,154.

• You’ll need to apply through the state’s Department of Revenue.

This one’s great for covering big expenses like rent or heating bills during the colder months.

California’s Climate Credit

California’s not handing out checks, but they’re helping by crediting your utility bills.

• If you get your electricity from PG&E, SCE, or SDG&E, you’ll see a credit on your bill—usually between $39 and $59.

• It’s automatic, so you don’t have to apply.

It’s a nice way to take some pressure off your monthly expenses.

Georgia’s Tax Rebates

Georgia’s handing out rebates again, thanks to a nice budget surplus.

• Singles get $250, heads of household $375, and married couples $500.

• If you filed state taxes and meet the requirements, you’ll get a cut of this.

It’s the state’s way of sharing some of the good times with taxpayers.

Pennsylvania’s Expanded Property Tax and Rent Rebate

Pennsylvania’s helping seniors and people with disabilities cover housing costs.

• Eligible residents can get up to $1,000.

• The income limit has been raised, so more people might qualify.

• Applications are open until June 30, 2025.

Arizona’s Dependent Refunds

If you’re in Arizona and have kids or dependents, listen up.

• You could get $250 per child under 17, and $100 for dependents over 17, up to three dependents per household.

• These payments are automatic if you filed taxes in 2021 and 2022.

Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend

Alaska residents get a unique yearly payout from the state’s oil revenue fund.

• For 2024, that’s $1,312.

• If you applied during the 2025 window, the money should already be hitting your account.

What About Other States?

Some other states have smaller relief programs, but these are the main ones you’ll want to keep an eye on for 2025.

Remember, each state has its own rules and deadlines, so check your state’s tax or revenue department website to make sure you don’t miss out.

No Federal Check, But Some Help Is Still Coming

Even though there won’t be a federal stimulus check this year, a lot of states are stepping up to help with payments, rebates, and credits. If you live in one of these states, make sure you know what you qualify for and when to apply. It could mean a few hundred dollars that make a real difference.

Need help figuring out what you qualify for or how to apply? Just ask—I’m here to make it easy.