Despite persistent online rumors suggesting otherwise, there are no new stimulus checks on the horizon from either the IRS or the state of California. These rumors have become a recurring theme since the distribution of the last Federal Economic Impact Payments ended in 2021. Sites leveraging these falsehoods have misled the public, suggesting imminent payouts ranging from $2,300 to $12,000which have not only been factually incorrect but have also fueled unnecessary hope among those in financial need.
The IRS achieved three rounds of stimulus checks during 2020 and 2021 to help Americans cope with the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. These payments were crucial for many, but as the IRS confirms on its website, “The IRS is no longer issuing third-party Economic Impact Payments.” People who did not receive payments due had the opportunity to claim them as a recovery rebate credit during the applicable tax year, but that window closed for new claims.
Similarly, California provided aid at the state level through two installments of its Golden State Stimulus and a Tax refund issued to the middle class as a debit card in 2022 and early 2023. However, a spokesperson for the California Franchise Tax Board confirmed to Fast Company that there are no plans to issue another round of these payments.
It is essential to differentiate between tax credits and stimulus checks. While tax credits such as the Child Tax Credit or the Earned Income Tax Credit can result in refunds or reductions in tax liability for eligible taxpayers, they are not direct stimulus payments intended for economic recovery. These credits are designed to help with specific financial burdens and are calculated based on taxpayers’ annual returns.
Rumors continue to circulate, especially as of late, possibly exacerbated by artificial intelligence technologies, causing stories about supposed new stimulus checks to become a trending topic online. This trend not only raises false hopes, but also highlights the misuse of digital platforms to generate traffic instead of disseminating useful information.
With tax season over for the year (the deadline was April 15), the emphasis should now be on disseminating accurate information. For those who filed late or are handling other tax-related concerns, it is crucial to consult verified sources or contact tax authorities directly.
In short, any claims about new rounds of stimulus checks from California or the federal government are unequivocally false. Taxpayers should stay informed through legitimate channels and remain skeptical of sensational claims that seem too good to be true, especially those proliferated through questionable online sources.