Finance

$800 Stimulus Checks in April 2025? What’s Real and What’s Not

Rumors are swirling about new $800 stimulus checks, but there’s no federal program confirmed as of April 2025. However, you could still get up to $1,400 from the IRS if you missed your 2021 stimulus. Plus, Colorado is offering $800 refunds, and California has a $725/month support program. Learn who qualifies, how to apply, and how to avoid scams in this detailed guide.

By Saloni Uniyal
Published on

$800 Stimulus Checks in April 2025: As of April 2025, many Americans are searching online for updates about “$800 stimulus checks.” Some headlines and social media posts are creating a buzz, suggesting that a new round of payments is coming. But let’s set the record straight: there is no federally approved $800 stimulus payment at this time.

However, don’t lose hope just yet. There are legitimate financial aid programs offering similar amounts, both through the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit and state-level relief efforts like Colorado’s TABOR refund. In this article, we’ll break down exactly what you can claim, who qualifies, how to apply, and how to avoid scams.

$800 Stimulus Checks in April 2025? What’s Real and What’s Not
$800 Stimulus Checks in April 2025? What’s Real and What’s Not

$800 Stimulus Checks in April 2025

Key InfoDetails
Is there a federal $800 stimulus check?No official confirmation as of April 2025.
IRS Recovery Rebate Credit (2021)Up to $1,400 if missed earlier. Must file 2021 return by April 15, 2025.
Colorado TABOR Refund$800 (single) / $1,600 (joint filers) for 2023 tax year.
California Family First Program$725/month for 12 months to eligible families.
Official IRS Linkirs.gov
Scam AlertIRS never asks for personal info via phone/email/text. Always verify sources.

While an $800 federal stimulus check isn’t happening, you still have options for financial help. If you missed your 2021 stimulus, you can get up to $1,400 through the Recovery Rebate Credit — but act fast, because the April 15, 2025 deadline is here. Additionally, states like Colorado and California are offering real benefits that many households can claim.

No $800 Federal Stimulus – Here’s the Truth

Let’s be clear: the U.S. federal government has not approved any new $800 stimulus checks for April 2025. The rumors stem largely from misleading headlines or confusion around state-specific benefits and tax credits.

The last major federal stimulus was the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIP) in 2021, worth up to $1,400. If you didn’t receive it, you may still have a chance to claim it.

IRS Recovery Rebate Credit: Up to $1,400 Still Available

What Is It?

The Recovery Rebate Credit allows taxpayers to claim stimulus money they didn’t receive during the original distribution period in 2021. This credit applies when:

  • You didn’t get the third Economic Impact Payment
  • You received less than the full amount
  • Your income was lower in 2021 than in 2020, making you eligible retroactively

How to Claim It

  • File your 2021 tax return as soon as possible
  • Use the Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet on IRS.gov
  • You must file by April 15, 2025

State-Level Stimulus and Relief: Real Opportunities

While the federal government has paused broad stimulus payments, states are stepping in with their own targeted relief. Here are the most prominent programs:

1. Colorado TABOR Refund: Up to $1,600

Under the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), Colorado is issuing refunds from excess state revenue.

  • $800 for single filers
  • $1,600 for joint filers
  • You must be a full-year Colorado resident in 2023
  • File your 2023 state income tax return by April 15, 2025

2. California Family First Economic Support

This is a guaranteed income pilot offering $725 per month for 12 months to:

  • Low-income families
  • With children under 6
  • Living in designated ZIP codes (mostly in Los Angeles and Oakland areas)

Eligibility is based on income level and residency

Beware of $800 Stimulus Scams

With financial anxiety rising, scammers are targeting vulnerable individuals using messages that promise $800 checks.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Texts or emails claiming to offer immediate payments
  • Phone calls asking for your bank details
  • Fake websites mimicking the IRS or state tax portals

How to Stay Safe

  • Never share personal info over the phone or via email
  • Visit official government websites directly
  • Check for HTTPS in the web address
  • Cross-check any news you see with IRS Newsroom

Practical Advice: What You Should Do Next

Step 1: Review Your Stimulus History

Check whether you received all three stimulus payments using the IRS Get My Payment Tool (no longer live, but your IRS transcripts will show this).

Step 2: File 2021 Tax Return for Rebate Credit

Even if you’re not required to file normally, do it anyway if you missed out.

  • Use Free File
  • Consider filing through a VITA site (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)
Step 3: Check State Relief Options

Visit your state tax or benefit portal and search for:

  • Refund programs
  • Basic income pilots
  • Energy or food assistance grants
Step 4: Monitor Reliable News and IRS Updates

Stay informed with:

  • irs.gov
  • tax.colorado.gov
  • cdss.ca.gov

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FAQs on $800 Stimulus Checks in April 2025

Is there a real $800 stimulus check coming in April 2025?

No, there’s no federal $800 stimulus check approved. But some state refunds like Colorado’s TABOR offer $800.

Can I still claim old stimulus money from 2021?

Yes! If you missed the third EIP, you can file a 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit by April 15, 2025.

How do I know if I qualify for Colorado’s TABOR refund?

If you were a full-year Colorado resident in 2023 and file your 2023 taxes on time, you likely qualify.

What is the California $725/month program?

It’s a pilot basic income program for low-income families with children under 6 in select areas. Not everyone qualifies.

How do I avoid fake stimulus scams?

Always visit official .gov websites and never respond to unsolicited calls or texts asking for personal or banking info.

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