WASHINGTON — While there are no new nationwide federal stimulus checks scheduled for February 2026, several states continue to distribute tax rebates, surplus refunds and targeted relief payments to eligible residents. Some of these payments are expected to arrive around Wednesday, Feb. 25, depending on state processing schedules.
Here’s a breakdown of what payments are going out, who qualifies and what residents should know before expecting a deposit.
Are There New Federal Stimulus Checks?
At this time, Congress has not approved any new nationwide federal stimulus payments for 2026. Any broad federal relief program would require new legislation before checks could be issued.
| Category | Status (Feb. 2026) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Federal stimulus checks | ❌ Not approved | No new nationwide direct payments authorized |
| IRS tax refunds | ✔ Ongoing | Standard 2025 tax refunds processing during filing season |
| Tariff rebate proposals | ⚖ Under discussion | No approved payment schedule |
Residents should be cautious of online claims suggesting universal $2,000 or $1,400 stimulus payments — no such program has been officially announced.
Which States Are Sending Relief or Rebate Payments?
Some states continue issuing state-level relief payments tied to tax surplus laws, property tax rebates, or targeted assistance programs. These are not federal stimulus checks but can function similarly for eligible households.
Examples of State-Level Payments in 2026
| State | Type of Payment | Estimated Amount | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | TABOR tax refund | Varies by income | Residents who filed 2025 state tax return |
| New Jersey | Property tax rebate | Up to $1,750 | Eligible homeowners & seniors |
| Pennsylvania | Property tax/rent rebate | Up to $1,000 | Seniors & low-income renters |
| Michigan | Income tax credit boost | Varies | Working families meeting income limits |
| New Mexico | State rebate payments | Up to $500 | Residents meeting income criteria |
Payment timing varies by state and processing schedule. Some deposits may arrive around Feb. 25 depending on tax return processing and state disbursement cycles.
Why States Are Issuing These Payments
Unlike federal stimulus checks issued during the pandemic, current state payments are generally funded through:
-
Budget surpluses
-
Tax revenue exceeding projections
-
Property tax relief programs
-
Expanded earned income credits
-
Targeted anti-inflation relief efforts
Many states experienced stronger-than-expected revenue collections, allowing lawmakers to approve temporary rebate programs.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility depends entirely on the state program. However, common requirements include:
✔ Filing a 2025 state income tax return
✔ Meeting income limits
✔ Owning a home or paying rent (for property rebates)
✔ Being a senior, disabled or low-income resident
✔ Living in the state for the full tax year
Some payments are automatic, while others require a separate application.
How Payments Are Delivered
| Delivery Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Sent to bank account used for state tax refund |
| Paper Check | Mailed to address on file |
| Tax Refund Add-On | Included with state tax refund |
Direct deposit is typically faster, while paper checks can take several additional weeks.
Important: Watch for Scams
Government agencies do not:
-
Charge application fees for stimulus payments
-
Send payment requests via social media
-
Ask for gift cards or cryptocurrency
Residents should only rely on official state government websites for payment information.
Bottom Line
While no new federal stimulus checks are scheduled for Feb. 25, 2026, several states are continuing tax rebate and relief programs that may result in payments arriving around that date. These programs are targeted and vary widely by location.
Residents should:
-
Check their state’s Department of Revenue website
-
Confirm eligibility requirements
-
Ensure tax returns are filed accurately and on time
-
Monitor direct deposit accounts carefully
State-level relief may provide meaningful support for eligible households — but it is not a nationwide stimulus program.
