URGENT UPDATE: As rumors swirl about new stimulus checks and relief payments in 2026, official sources confirm that no new federal economic-impact payments are currently authorized. The IRS has not announced any upcoming checks, leaving many Americans questioning the validity of these claims.
The last round of federal payments occurred in 2021, requiring new legislation from Congress for any future disbursements. In 2024, the IRS issued automatic payments to eligible taxpayers who hadn’t claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit, providing up to $1,400 per person. That opportunity has now passed, with the filing deadline for those credits ending on April 15, 2025.
Despite ongoing discussions, Congress has not moved to authorize new stimulus payments. Speculation includes a proposed $2,000 “tariff dividend” suggested by Donald Trump, which would be funded by import taxes. However, a November 2025 analysis by the Tax Foundation estimated this plan could cost between $279.8 billion and $606.8 billion, far exceeding projected tariff revenues of $158.4 billion in 2025 and $207.5 billion in 2026.
During a recent cabinet meeting, Trump stated the U.S. is collecting “trillions of dollars” from tariffs, predicting 2026 could be “the largest tax refund season ever.” However, Democrats have voiced concerns, revealing that import taxes have cost the average household nearly $1,200 since Trump resumed office.
In December 2025, Trump announced a one-time, tax-free $1,776 Warrior Dividend for nearly 1.5 million service members. This payment is part of the administration’s One Big Beautiful Bill, funded through a $2.9 billion military housing supplement. Active-duty troops and reservists will receive this boost, with Coast Guard members receiving a similar $2,000 “Devotion to Duty” bonus.
Recurring online claims about $1,702 or $1,390 “stimulus checks” are often linked to state programs or scams. The IRS warns taxpayers to be cautious of messages requesting personal information, as they do not contact individuals through email or social media.
Taxpayers should also be aware of eligibility for credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, which may provide refunds even without overpayment. Analysts expect average refunds to rise this year, potentially reaching $4,167 due to recent tax law changes.
As of now, no definitive plans for new stimulus checks or tariff dividends have been announced, and skepticism remains among lawmakers and economists regarding their feasibility.
For the latest updates on potential stimulus payments and relief efforts, stay tuned as this situation develops.
