As 2025 begins, some families in the U.S. are starting the year with great economic news. Why? Because several stimulus checks are being sent out across different states. It might sound complicated, but it’s actually not. Keep reading, and we’ll explain who can benefit and how these payments work. Let’s dive in!
You might have heard of this check—or maybe you haven’t. The IRS, or Internal Revenue Service, has identified over a million people who, for various reasons, didn’t claim the third stimulus check approved during the pandemic. This was the one issued under the Biden administration—remember that?
IRS Stimulus Check: $1,400 You May Have Missed
The key lies in the Recovery Rebate Credit. Many people who were eligible didn’t apply for it, and now the IRS is sending them the outstanding money. However, this only applies to those who filed their 2021 tax return. Payments have already started and will continue throughout January.
Also, it’s not just for those who missed the payment. Adjustments will be made for people who received the check but didn’t get the full amount. In other words, if you’re owed part of it, the IRS will review your case and send you the difference.
Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend: More Than Just a Check
Alaska has its own unique system. Every year, residents receive extra money thanks to the state’s natural resource earnings, like oil. It’s called the Permanent Fund Dividend (or PFD).
This year’s check, which corresponds to 2024, will be $1,700. The best part? You don’t need to do much to receive it as long as you’re a resident and meet the basic requirements. The payment date is set for January 15, 2025.
For many families, this money provides essential relief, especially in a state where winters are long and living costs, like heating, are high.
Sacramento and the Family First Program
California also has good news, though it’s a bit different. In Sacramento, a program called Family First is helping 200 families with monthly checks of $725.
What’s interesting about this program is that it’s not a one-time payment—it lasts for 12 months. It began in December 2024 and will continue through November 2025. For this January, payments are scheduled to be sent automatically on Wednesday, January 15.
This initiative has a clear goal: to provide relief to the most vulnerable families while testing whether such programs can serve as a model for future initiatives in other regions.
What Can You Do to Benefit?
If you think you might qualify for any of these checks, here’s what you need to do:
- For the IRS stimulus check, make sure you filed your 2021 tax return and check if you’re missing a payment.
- In Alaska, it’s essential to be a resident and have submitted your application for the PFD.
- In Sacramento, if you’re already part of the program, the payments will be sent automatically.
As always, staying informed is key. These types of assistance can make a big difference in daily life, so don’t let the opportunity slip by.
It’s encouraging to see how, even in challenging economic times, programs exist to support families. The IRS adjustments and local initiatives in Alaska and Sacramento demonstrate how resources can make a significant impact. January has just begun, but there’s still time to claim what you’re entitled to. Who knows, these checks might provide the necessary boost to kick off the year successfully.
