$500 Checks Are Being Sent Out Now—See If Your State Made the List!

You may have heard some buzz about a $500 stimulus payment going out in 2025. It’s showing up in headlines, social media posts, and maybe even group chats. And let’s be honest—$500 sounds pretty helpful right now.

But here’s the thing: not everyone is getting it, and it’s not a federal stimulus check. Still, some people in certain states will see money hitting their accounts soon—so let’s sort through what’s actually happening and how it might affect you.

First, Let’s Clear This Up: It’s Not a National Stimulus Check

Despite how it’s being shared online, this isn’t a new round of federal stimulus payments. There’s no new check coming from the IRS or Congress that sends $500 to every American.

Instead, a few individual states have set up their own rebate programs. These are being funded through budget surpluses or state-specific tax relief efforts. So yes, some people really are getting $500—but it depends entirely on where you live and whether you qualify.

What’s Happening in Georgia?

Georgia is leading the charge right now. Starting around June 16, 2025, the state began sending out tax rebates of up to $500 as part of a new relief effort.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• $250 for single filers

• $375 for heads of household

• $500 for married couples filing jointly

To qualify, you need to have filed your 2023 state taxes and meet certain basic eligibility requirements. If you did that, you don’t need to apply—the state will send your money automatically, either by direct deposit or check.

Payments are expected to go out over a few weeks and should be mostly wrapped up by late July or early August.

Other States Offering Help Too

Georgia isn’t alone. Several other states are stepping up with relief payments or expanded refund programs. Here are a few examples:

• New Mexico is issuing $500 rebates for eligible taxpayers. These are expected to arrive between late June and early July.

• New York has plans to send out $150 to $400 inflation relief checks this fall, depending on income.

• Pennsylvania and Arizona are offering expanded rebates and tax credits, especially for families with kids or those who rent or pay property tax.

Each state is doing things a little differently, so it’s worth checking your local Department of Revenue website for details.

Am I Eligible?

It all depends on your state’s rules, but generally, you might qualify if:

• You filed your 2023 state tax return on time

• You’re a full-time resident of the state offering the rebate

• You fall within certain income limits

• You don’t have major tax debts or outstanding obligations

Georgia, for example, is only issuing payments to those who had a tax liability—so not everyone will receive the full amount.

How Will the Payment Be Sent?

In most cases, you’ll receive the payment the same way you got your state tax refund:

• Direct deposit if that’s how you filed

• A paper check if you mailed your return or didn’t provide banking info

You don’t need to do anything extra—just keep an eye on your account or mailbox over the next few weeks.

Watch Out for Scams

Unfortunately, whenever government payments are mentioned, scammers try to take advantage. Here are a few red flags:

• Messages asking you to click a link to “claim” your money

• Emails pretending to be from the IRS or your state’s tax office

• Requests for your Social Security number, bank info, or a “fee” to process your payment

If something feels off or asks for personal info—don’t respond. Go straight to your state’s official website for accurate information.

The $500 stimulus payment everyone’s talking about? It’s real—but it’s not a blanket check for all Americans. It’s coming from individual state programs, and it only applies to people who meet specific requirements.

If you live in Georgia, New Mexico, or a few other states, you could be getting some extra cash soon. But if your state hasn’t announced anything, don’t expect a surprise check in the mail.

Want help finding out what’s happening in your state? Just tell me where you live, and I’ll get you the latest info.