Shocking Truth: Is the $6,400 Stimulus Payment Actually Happening? Here’s What You Need to Know

A viral video circulating on social media falsely claims that U.S. President Joe Biden has authorized a $6,400 stimulus payment for 97% of Americans.

No Evidence of New Stimulus Program

The video features an audio track mimicking Biden’s voice and urges users to sign up for a “spending card” loaded with $6,400.

However, Jenna Valle-Riestra, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of the Treasury, has confirmed that no such program exists. “Any type of program like that would require legislation from Congress,” Valle-Riestra clarified, emphasizing that such claims lack any factual basis. Past stimulus payments, such as those distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic, were authorized through congressional approval to provide economic assistance during crises. No similar measures have been proposed or passed recently, making the claims in the video entirely false.

Identifying Misinformation

The deceptive video is being shared on Facebook and other platforms by pages falsely presenting themselves as official government organizations. Many of these pages lack verified credentials or authentic links to federal agencies. For instance, one page claims to be an “insurance agent” but provides no additional information or legitimate website, raising clear suspicions. According to officials, scams like these often use fake audio or video overlays to appear credible, preying on individuals seeking financial relief. Similar misinformation campaigns have previously been debunked, including a 2020 claim that former President Donald Trump had authorized an identical $6,400 payment.

Protecting Against Online Scams

The U.S. government warns citizens to remain vigilant against fraudulent online offers promising “free money.” To verify the legitimacy of federal assistance programs, officials recommend consulting trusted government websites such as usa.gov or irs.gov.

Reuters and other fact-checking organizations have also flagged the video as a scam, noting that it follows a familiar pattern of using doctored audio and exaggerated claims to mislead the public. These tactics aim to exploit financial insecurities while promoting fake schemes.

In summary, no $6,400 stimulus program has been authorized or announced by President Joe Biden or the federal government as of January 2024. Claims suggesting otherwise are entirely false and part of an ongoing misinformation campaign. Always verify information about government programs through official channels to avoid falling victim to scams.