As January 2026 comes to a close, many Americans are watching their bank accounts closely, hoping for extra financial relief. While there is no new federal stimulus check scheduled for January 28, 2026, several states are continuing to send out state-level relief payments, often referred to as “stimulus checks 2026” through rebates, refunds, or long‑standing benefit programs.
These payments are not universal, and eligibility varies widely by state. Instead of a one‑size‑fits‑all federal program, the money reaching households in late January reflects state budget surpluses, constitutional refund requirements, and targeted tax relief initiatives aimed at easing the cost of living.
No Federal Stimulus — But State Payments Are Real
Despite online rumors, Congress has not approved any new nationwide stimulus checks, and the IRS is not issuing federal payments tied to January 28. Any deposits or checks arriving around that date are coming from state governments, not Washington.
“These are state-designed programs, often tied to tax filings or specific eligibility rules,” financial experts note. “They can feel like stimulus checks, but legally and administratively, they are very different.”
States Sending Payments Around Late January 2026
Below is a localized breakdown by state, explaining who qualifies, how much residents may receive, and why payments may arrive around January 28, 2026. This section is designed for readers looking for state-specific clarity rather than general national headlines.
Below are some of the states where residents may see money arrive in late January or early February, depending on filing status and processing timelines.
Colorado: TABOR Refunds
Who’s getting paid in Colorado:
Residents across Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins, and rural counties may receive TABOR refunds as part of the state’s constitutional surplus return system.
Colorado’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) requires the state to return excess revenue to residents when collections exceed constitutional limits.
- Who qualifies: Residents who lived in Colorado for the full qualifying tax year and filed a state income tax return.
- How much: Refund amounts vary by filing status but can exceed $1,000 for some taxpayers.
- How it’s paid: Direct deposit or mailed check.
TABOR refunds are automatic for eligible filers, meaning no separate application is required beyond filing a tax return.
New Jersey: ANCHOR, StayNJ, and Senior Freeze Programs
Who’s getting paid in New Jersey:
Eligible homeowners and renters in Newark, Jersey City, Trenton, Paterson, and surrounding suburbs may see direct deposits or checks tied to property tax relief programs.
New Jersey continues to roll out payments under multiple property tax relief programs, many of which function like direct stimulus-style checks.
- ANCHOR (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters):
- Offers payments to qualifying homeowners and renters based on income and residency.
- Homeowners and renters may receive several hundred to more than $1,000, depending on eligibility.
- StayNJ and Senior Freeze:
- Targeted toward older residents, especially seniors on fixed incomes.
- Benefits are delivered as reimbursements or credits, with some payments extending into early 2026.
Residents who applied by fall deadlines may see payments arrive in late January as the state continues processing.
Pennsylvania: Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
Who’s getting paid in Pennsylvania:
Qualified residents in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, and smaller municipalities may receive rebate checks aimed at seniors and disabled residents.
Pennsylvania’s long‑running Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program continues to provide relief to vulnerable populations.
- Who qualifies:
- Seniors age 65 and older
- Widows and widowers age 50 and older
- Adults with disabilities
- Income limits apply, and benefits are not automatic.
- How much: Rebates can reach up to $1,000 or more, depending on income and housing costs.
Late filings and supplemental payments may be issued into early 2026.
New York: Inflation Relief Refunds
Who’s getting paid in New York:
Residents in New York City, Long Island, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany who meet income guidelines may qualify for inflation relief refunds.
Under its recent state budget, New York approved inflation relief refunds aimed at helping residents cope with rising prices.
- Who qualifies: Residents who filed a prior-year state tax return and meet income requirements.
- How much: Typically ranges from a few hundred dollars for single filers to higher amounts for joint filers.
- Timing: While many payments were sent in 2025, additional batches may continue into early 2026.
Alaska: Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)
Who’s getting paid in Alaska:
Eligible residents in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and rural communities may receive late or supplemental Permanent Fund Dividend payments.
Although not new, Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend remains one of the most well‑known state payments.
- Who qualifies: Residents meeting residency and application requirements.
- Funding source: Oil and investment revenues.
- Timing: Late or supplemental payments can extend into early 2026.
Additional State Snapshots
California: Targeted Credits and Refunds
While California is not issuing a new universal stimulus check, some residents may see refunds, earned income tax credits, or climate-related rebates processed in late January, depending on filing timelines.
Florida: No State Stimulus, But Other Payments Apply
Florida does not issue state income tax refunds, but some residents may receive local assistance payments, disaster-related aid, or delayed federal benefits processed around the same time.
Texas: Relief Comes Through Local Programs
Texas has no state income tax and no statewide stimulus program, but city- and county-level assistance programs may issue payments for rent, utilities, or disaster recovery into early 2026.
Why These Payments Matter
Unlike federal stimulus checks issued during the pandemic, these state payments are:
- Targeted, not universal
- Often based on tax filings, age, income, or residency
- Funded through state surpluses or constitutionally required refunds
For households facing higher housing costs, food prices, and utility bills, even a few hundred dollars can provide meaningful relief.
How to Check If You’re Eligible
Residents expecting a payment should:
- Visit their state department of revenue or taxation website
- Confirm eligibility requirements
- Check payment status using official online tools
- Ensure mailing addresses and bank information are up to date
Bottom Line
While January 28, 2026, will not bring a new federal stimulus check, thousands of Americans will still receive state-issued relief payments in late January and early February. These payments reflect state‑level efforts to return surplus funds, reduce tax burdens, and support residents most affected by inflation.
For many families, the key is understanding which program applies to them — and making sure all required paperwork has been filed.
This article is intended for informational purposes and reflects state programs in effect as of early 2026.
