Are Stimulus Checks Returning in 2025? Trump’s Plans Explained

Many Americans are still uncertain about whether another round of stimulus checks or a proposed “DOGE dividend refund” will arrive in 2025.

While former President Donald Trump has floated the idea of additional financial support, either as a traditional stimulus payment or through a new program, no official confirmation has been made. Meanwhile, the IRS continues to process unclaimed payments for past stimulus rounds, including the Recovery Rebate Credit.

IRS Warning: Watch Out for Stimulus Scams

The IRS advises taxpayers to be cautious of fraud attempts. Scammers may impersonate government representatives and ask for personal details like Social Security numbers or bank account information, claiming to expedite missing payments. To avoid falling victim, individuals should only deal with the IRS directly or consult a licensed tax professional.

Deadlines for Past Stimulus Payments Have Passed

The time to claim the first ($1,200) and second ($600) stimulus payments—distributed in 2020 and early 2021—has officially ended. The third and final stimulus check of $1,400 was available through a Recovery Rebate Credit for the 2021 tax year.

However, the deadline to file and claim that credit was April 15, 2025. Even those who received tax extensions were still required to submit their 2021 return by that date. After this period, any unclaimed funds become the property of the U.S. Treasury and cannot be recovered.

Fourth Stimulus and DOGE Dividend Rumors: What’s Real?

Rumors have spread online suggesting a possible fourth stimulus check worth $2,000. However, no bill has been passed by Congress, and the IRS has not issued any updates supporting those claims. Any information found on unofficial websites or social media should be treated with skepticism.

In February, Donald Trump proposed the idea of a $5,000 stimulus payout called the “DOGE dividend,” referencing potential savings identified by the Department of Government Efficiency. While this announcement generated buzz, no further details have been released, and the concept remains speculative.

When to Expect Your Tax Refund

If you’ve already filed your federal tax return electronically and included your direct deposit information, you could receive your refund within 21 days of IRS acceptance. If you opted for a paper check or did not include banking details, your refund may take 6 to 8 weeks to arrive by mail.

It’s important to understand that submitting your return is different from the IRS accepting it. Once it is accepted, you can check your refund status, and if it’s approved, the funds will usually appear in your account within a few days.

Checking the Status of Your Federal Refund

The IRS provides a tool called “Where’s My Refund?” on its official website. This online service updates once daily and allows you to check the progress of your refund within 24 hours of electronically filing your return.

To use it, you’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your expected refund. The tool will show one of three statuses: return received, refund approved, or refund sent.

You may also call the IRS at 800-829-1954 for updates on your refund status.

How to Track Your State Refund

Each U.S. state has its own system for tracking tax refunds. For example:

• Delaware residents can use the Delaware Division of Taxation’s online portal.
• Pennsylvania has a dedicated website where taxpayers can check the status of their state refunds.
• New Jersey also offers an online service for refund tracking.

If you’re unsure where to check, visit your state’s official taxation or revenue department website.

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