As of March 18, 2025, there are several proposed stimulus initiatives under discussion in the United States:
1. DOGE Dividend Proposal:
President Donald Trump and Elon Musk have introduced the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, aiming to reduce federal spending by $2 trillion over the next 18 months. The plan proposes distributing 20% of the savings to taxpayers as a one-time $5,000 stimulus check.
However, this proposal faces significant challenges, including the need for congressional approval and skepticism regarding the feasibility of achieving such substantial savings. Consequently, the likelihood of receiving this stimulus check in 2025 appears low.
2. State-Level Stimulus Programs:
Several states have introduced their own stimulus programs to assist residents:
- California: Proposes payments of up to $725 per family, targeting low-to-moderate-income residents. Payments are expected to be issued via direct deposit or mailed checks in late 2025.
- Colorado: Offers up to $1,600 for married couples and $800 for single filers. To qualify, residents must file a Colorado state tax return by April 15, 2024. Payments are anticipated by mid-2025.
- New York: Proposes payments ranging from $300 to $500 for eligible taxpayers, with single filers earning up to $150,000 and joint filers up to $300,000 qualifying. If approved, payments would begin in the fall of 2025.
These state-level initiatives are independent of federal programs and are subject to each state’s budgetary decisions and legislative processes.
3. Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend:
Alaska continues its tradition of providing annual dividends to residents through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program. For 2025, eligible residents can expect payments of $1,702. The application window opened on January 1 and will close on March 31.
Residents who applied between February 12 and March 12 are slated to receive funds by March 20. Eligibility criteria include residency requirements and a clean criminal record.
It’s important to note that federal Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks) from previous COVID-19 relief efforts have concluded. The IRS has issued all first, second, and third payments, and the “Get My Payment” tool is no longer available for tracking these past payments.