There is currently no plan for a new stimulus check from the government. In the past, some taxpayers received $1,400 checks in 2025 after finally filing their unreported 2021 tax returns.
Proposals for additional payments, including a plan dubbed “DOGE” suggested by Elon Musk’s efficiency department, were not included in the spending plan from former President Donald Trump. While discussions took place regarding potential $5,000 payouts funded by savings from government efficiency improvements, no official plan has been established, as such decisions would need to come from Congress. Previous stimulus checks were part of a response to the pandemic, and the most recent payments occurred in late 2024 under the Biden administration, targeted at those who had not filed their returns on time.
A recap of past stimulus payments reveals that individuals received varying amounts: in 2020, individuals received up to $1,200, and in early 2021, payments of $600 were issued. The third round in 2021 saw eligible individuals receiving up to $1,400, along with additional amounts for dependents. However, deadlines for claiming these payments are strict. Unclaimed funds revert to the U.S. Treasury, and taxpayers are no longer able to appeal for missed checks.
As of May 2025, the IRS reported handling nearly 146 million tax returns with approximately $275 billion in refunds issued, averaging around $2,939, which marked an increase from the previous year. It is important for taxpayers to be aware that the method of filing their tax returns significantly impacts the speed of receiving refunds. Electronic filings typically expedite the process, while mailed returns may experience considerable delays due to ongoing staffing issues at processing centers.
For those who have not yet received their refunds, it is advisable to monitor their status online or through the IRS2GO app rather than refiling, as this could complicate the situation further. Taxpayers can check the status of their refunds at the IRS website, ensuring that they have the necessary information on hand.
This cautious yet informative overview sheds light on the complexities surrounding stimulus payments and tax refunds. Although the future of stimulus checks remains uncertain, the focus on efficient processing of tax returns offers a silver lining for many taxpayers awaiting crucial funds.