As of March 12, 2025, there are several developments regarding stimulus payments in the United States:
Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD): Alaska is distributing its annual Permanent Fund Dividend, with payments of up to $1,702 for eligible residents. To qualify, applicants must have:
- Resided in Alaska for the entire 2024 calendar year.
- Intended to remain in Alaska indefinitely.
- Not claimed residency in another state or country since December 31, 2023.
- No felony convictions in 2024.
- Been present in Alaska for at least 72 consecutive hours in 2023 and 2024.
- No unapproved absences from the state for more than 180 days.
Applications are open from January 1 to March 31, 2025. Payments are distributed in waves, with the next scheduled for March 20.
Federal Stimulus Check Proposals: Discussions have emerged about potential federal stimulus payments:
- Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Savings: President Donald Trump and Elon Musk have proposed issuing $5,000 checks to taxpayers, funded by savings identified by the DOGE. The DOGE aims to reduce federal spending by $2 trillion over 18 months, with 20% of the savings potentially returned to taxpayers. However, experts express skepticism about achieving such significant savings, and no concrete plans have been finalized.
- Recovery Rebate Credit: The IRS is sending out payments to approximately 1 million Americans who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. These payments are automatic and do not require action from recipients.
State-Level Initiatives: Some states are implementing their own stimulus measures:
- New York: A rebate program funded by sales tax revenue is benefiting up to 8.6 million New Yorkers, with checks ranging from $300 to $500. Payments, initially expected in February, may be delayed until March 2025.
Caution Regarding Unverified Information: Be cautious of rumors about large federal stimulus payments, such as the unverified claim of $2,500 checks in March 2025. No official confirmation has been released by the Internal Revenue Service or other authoritative sources.
It’s important to stay informed through official channels like the IRS and state government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on stimulus payments.